THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 


THE  MACMILLAN  COMPANY 

NEW  YORK   •  BOSTON  •   CHICAGO   •  DALLAS 
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THE  MACMILLAN  CO.  OF  CANADA,  LTD. 

TORONTO 


SWANHILD 
(Reproduced  from  the  painting  by  Robert  Reid) 


THE 
GARDEN  OF   PARADISE 


BY 
EDWARD   SHELDON 


BASED  ON  "  THE  LITTLE  MERMAID  "  BY 
HANS  ANDERSEN 


fork 
THE   MACMILLAN   COMPANY 


All  rights  reserved 


Copyright  by  Edward  Sheldon,  May  1914. 
Copyright  by  Edward  Sheldon,  June  1914. 
Copyright  by  Edward  Sheldon,  November  1914. 
Copyright  by  Edward  Sheldon,  Ottawa,  Canada, 

November  1914. 
Copyright  by  Edward  Sheldon,  Great  Britain. 


COPYRIGHT,  1915 
BY  EDWARD  SHELDON 


TO  EMILY  STEVENS 


CHARACTERS 

SEA-FOLK 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

THE  EMPRESS  DOWAGER,  his  mother 

THE  PRINCESS  THORA 

THE  PRINCESS  LONA          [  his  daughters 

THE  PRINCESS  SWANHILD  J 

THE  EMPEROR  OF  THE  CRABS 

THE  TURTLE  RAJAH 

THE  PRINCE  OF  THE  JELLYFISH  AND  OF  THE  EASTERN  SEA 

THE  CAPTAIN  OF  THE  GUARD 


THE  CHIEF  MUSICIAN 
THE  CHIEF  COOK 


dignitaries  of  the  Imperial 
Court 


THE  MASTER  OF  CEREMONIES 

THE  SEA  WITCH 

THE  DEVIL-FISH  1 

THE  SNAKE  \  her  creatures 

THE  SHARK          j 

SOLDIERS,  COURTIERS,  PAGES,  SERVANTS,  AND  SUITES  OF 

THE  ROYAL  GUESTS,  SLAVES  OF  THE  SEA  WITCH  AND 

OTHER  HORRORS 


vii 


LAND-FOLK 


his  comrades 


THE  KING  OF  THE  BLUE  MOUNTAINS 
LORD  OTHO,  his  Chancellor 
JASPER 

VALENTINE 

RlNALDO 

SEBASTIAN 

BERTRAM 

ROLAND 

THE  LORD  HIGH  ADMIRAL 

THE  CAPTAIN  or  THE  ROYAL  SHIP 

THE  STEERSMAN 

PETER 

JOHN  \  sailors 

CHRISTIAN  J 

THE  KING'S  HERALD 

THE  QUEEN  or  THE  SOUTH 

THE  PRINCE  OF  SPICELAND,  her  ambassador 

THE  GRAND  VIZIER 

MEDEA 

ORIANA 

ISOTTA 

ARIADNE 
MARIETTA 
ARMIDA 

EGLAMOUR,  her  page 
THE  QUEEN'S  HERALD 

COURTIERS,    LADIES-IN-WAITING,    SOLDIERS,     SAILORS, 
PRIESTS,  PAGES,  ETC.,  BELONGING  TO  BOTH  COURTS 
viii 


her  maids-of-honor 


SCENES 

SCENE       I.  Under  the  sea.    The  palace  of  the  Merman 

Emperor. 

SCENE      II.  The  open  sea. 
SCENE    III.  The  shore  by  the  convent. 
SCENE     IV.  Under  the  sea.    The  cave  of  the  Sea  Witch. 
SCENE       V.  The  Kingdom  of  the  Blue  Mountains.     The 

royal  palace. 
SCENE     VI.  The  same. 
SCENE   VII.  Southland.    The  Queen's  bower. 
SCENE  VIII.  The  Queen's  garden. 
SCENE     IX.  The  bridal  ship. 


Produced  at  the  Park  Theatre,  New  York,  November  28,  1914, 
with  the  following  cast: — 

SEA-FOLK 


The  Merman  Emperor      .... 
The  Empress  Dowager,  His  Mother 
The  Princess  Thora       \ 
The  Princess  Lona         >  His  Daughters 
The  Princess  Swanhild ) 

The  Emperor  of  the  Crabs 

The  Turtle  Rajah 

The  Prince  of  the  Jellyfish  and  of  the  East 
ern  Sea 


The  Captain  of  the  Guards 
The  Chief  Cook 
The  Master  of  Ceremonies 
The  Chief  Musician 
The  Sea  Witch 


Dignitaries 

of  the 

Imperial 

Court 


LlTTLEDALE  POWER 

JESSIE  VILLARS 
MINNIE  TERRY 
PHYLLIS  THATCHER 
EMILY  STEVENS 
LIONEL  BRAHAM 
SHERIDAN  BLOCK 

HARMAN  CHESHIRE 
MURRAY  KINNELL 
JOHN  ROGERS 
CLARENCE  FELTER 
ASHETON  TONGE 
BLANCHE  WALSH 


LAND-FOLK 


The  King's  Companions 


Sailors 


The  King  of  the  Blue  Mountains 

Lord  Otho,  His  Chancellor     .     . 

Jasper 

Valentine 

Rinaldo 

Sebastian 

Bertram 

Roland 

The  Captain  of  the  Royal  Ship 

The  Steersman       .... 

Peter 

John 

Christian 

Eric 

The  King's  Herald 

The  Queen  of  the  Southland  .      . 

The  Prince  of  Spiceland,  Her  Ambassador 

The  Grand  Vizier        

Medea 

Oriana 

Isotta 

Ariadne 

Marietta 

Armida 

Eglamour,  Her  Page 

The  Queen's  Herald 


Her  Maids  of  Honor 


GEORGE  RELPH 
ASHETON  TONGE 
MURRAY  KINNELL 
W.  W.  GEAR 
FRANK  CONROY 
ALBERT  BARRETT 
CLARENCE  FELTER 
BENNETT  KILPACK 
HUGH  McCRAE 
SHERIDAN  BLOCK 
JOHN  ROGERS 
RICHARD  HALE 
MAURICE  ROBINSON 
CLIFFORD  L.  WALKER 
FRANK  CONROY 
RENEE  KELLY 
LIONEL  B  RAH  AM 
HARRY  NEVILLE 
ROSINA  HENLEY 
ROSALIE  MATHIEU 
AGNES  DORNTEE 
EVA  MICHNER 
HAZEL  TURNEY 
EUPHEMIA  FOWLER 
WILLIAM  BROWN 
RICHARD  HALE 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 


SCENE  I 

Under  the  sea.  Before  the  palace  of  the  Merman  Emperor. 
At  left  the  palace.  At  right,  under  sea-trees,  stand  the  im 
perial  thrones.  Between  the  palace  and  the  thrones  are 
three  small  garden  plots.  One  is  in  the  shape  of  a  fish  and 
a  broken  rocking-horse  stands  in  the  midst  of  its  flowers; 
the  second  is  in  the  shape  of  a  mermaid  and  in  its  centre 
is  a  pilot's  wheel;  the  third  is  round  in  shape,  and  the 
flowers  twine  about  the  marble  statue  of  a  youth,  with  head 
upraised. 

The  Merman  Emperor  —  a  stout,  quaint  little  old  gentleman 
with  a  long  green  beard  —  is  seated  on  his  throne.  On  his 
head  is  a  crown;  he  wears  royal  robes  and  carries  a  trident. 
He  is  a  man  to  the  waist  and  below  that  is  a  fish's  tail.  Be 
side  him  sits  his  mother,  the  Empress  Dowager.  She  is 
very  old  and  bent,  with  white  hair  under  her  crown.  She 
knits  quietly.  Leaning  against  the  cushions  at  their 
father's  tail  sit  the  two  elder  princesses,  Thora  and  Lona. 
They  have  long  green  hair,  coronets  of  pearls  and  beautiful 
glittering  green  tails.  Back  of  the  thrones  stand  a  line  of 
guards  — fish  in  brilliant  uniforms,  carrying  muskets 
under  their  fins.  Before  the  throne  float  the  Captain  of  the 
Guard,  —  a  splendid  sword-fish,  looking  as  if  he  were 
dressed  in  shining  armor,  —  the  Master  of  Ceremonies,  — 
a  fat  old  porpoise  gorgeously  attired,  —  and  the  Chief 
Musician,  another  fish,  carrying  his  fiddle  under  one  fin, 
his  bow  in  the  other. 

THE  EMPEROR 
[Glancing  at  his  notes.}  The  Chief  Musician. 


V  THE 'GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  CHIEF  MUSICIAN 
[Coming  forward.]  Imperial  Majesty? 

THE  EMPEROR 

Is  the  orchestra  ready?  Are  their  harps  and  conch- 
shells  tuned? 

THE  CHIEF  MUSICIAN 

August  One,  all  is  prepared.  My  fish  await  only  your 
command  to  burst  into  harmony.  And,  O  Mightiness,  I 
myself  have  presumed  to  compose  a  new  waltz  in  honor 
of  the  fifteenth  birthday  of  the  Princess  Swanhild,  the 
tune  of  which  I  beg  leave  to  — 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Interrupting.]  Start  off  the  ball  with  it.  [Looking  at 
notes.]  The  Master  of  Ceremonies!  [The  Chief  Musician 
retires  backwards  into  the  palace.] 

THE  MASTER  OF  CEREMONIES 

Your  Divinity  deigns  to  address  his  unworthy  slave? 

THE  EMPEROR 

Make  sure  that  all  the  guests  have  plenty  of  wine  and 
are  introduced  to  everybody. 

THE  EMPRESS 

And  see  that  the  starfish  and  periwinkles  engaged  to 
illuminate  the  party  are  in  the  best  of  health. 

THE  EMPEROR 

The  Captain  of  the  Guard!  [The  Master  of  Ceremonies 
bows  and  retires.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  3 

THE  CAPTAIN  OF  THE  GUARD 
[Saluting.]  Here,  my  Emperor. 

THE  EMPEROR 

Keep  a  sharp  watch  for  all  outlawed  whales,  devil-fish, 
sharks  and  —  [Dropping  his  voice.]  —other  creatures  of 
the  Sea  Witch. 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Mournfully.]  My  son,  I  said  so  once  and  I  say  so  now  — 
we  should  have  made  sure  of  safety  by  inviting  the  Sea 
Witch  to  the  ball! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Ssh,  Mother,  be  still!  [To  the  Captain  of  the  Guard.] 
You  understand? 

THE  CAPTAIN  OF  THE  GUARD 

My  fish,  O  Majesty,  have  an  eye  in  every  scale,  in  every 
fin  a  sword! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Quite  so  —  quite  so!  [The  Captain  of  the  Guard  salutes 
and  retires.]  Now  —  let  us  consider!  Is  everything  ready? 
Nothing  lying  about?  Everything  clean  and  tidy  —  [Sud 
denly.]  Dear!  Dear!  Thora!  Lona! 

THORA 

Yes,  papa? 

LONA 

Yes,  papa? 

THE  EMPEROR 

Your  gardens  I 


4  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

LONA 

Our  gardens? 

THE  EMPEROR 

Look  at  them !  Weeds  choking  up  the  paths,  shells  drop 
ping  out  of  place,  snails  crawling  over  the  flowers! 

THE  EMPRESS 
Disgraceful! 

THORA 

Oh  well,  grandmamma,  you  seem  to  forget  that  Lona 
and  I  are  grown-up  now! 

LONA 
Grown-up  and  engaged  to  be  married. 

THORA 

Far  too  old  for  such  childish  duties  as  picking  snails  off 
flowers! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Well,  if  you  are  too  lazy  to  keep  your  gardens  free  from 
weeds  and  snails,  how  in  the  sea  do  you  expect  to  keep 
house  for  your  husbands  when  you,  Lona,  have  married 
the  Prince  of  the  Jellyfish  and  you,  Thora,  are  the  bride 
of  the  Turtle  Rajah? 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Knitting.]  Those  two  unfortunate  young  fish  —  how  I 
pity  them !  [A  dozen  or  so  little  fish  swim  over  the  heads  of 
the  speakers  and  gather  at  a  certain  window  in  the  palace.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  5 

THE  EMPEROR 

I  am  pleased  to  observe  that  your  little  sister's  garden 
is,  on  the  contrary,  most  carefully  tended.  Look,  nother! 
See  how  Swanhild  has  trained  her  flowers  to  grow  about  the 
statue! 

THE  EMPRESS 

Very  neat  and  pretty! 

LONA 
Swanhild  enjoys  digging  in  her  garden! 

THORA 
She  likes  making  mud-pies! 

LONA 
She  even  plays  with  dolls! 

THORA 

After  all,  she  is  nothing  but  a  baby!  [The  window  in  the 
palace  opens  and  Swanhild  is  seen,  her  mermaid  doll  under 
her  arm.  In  her  hand  are  several  crusts  of  bread.  She  sits 
on  the  window-sill  and  talks  softly  to  the  fish.] 

THE  EMPEROR 

She  is  fifteen  years  old  to-day!  This  ball  is  to  celebrate 
her  coming-of-age.  She  is  about  to  make  her  bow  as  mer 
maid  princess  to  the  kingdoms  and  the  glories  of  the  sea. 

SWANHILD 

[To  the  fish.}  Good  evening,  you  little  darlings!  Are  you 
very  hungry?  Yes?  That's  nice  —  because  I've  saved  all 


6  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

my  crusts  from  this  morning's  breakfast  and  a  piece  of 
cake  from  my  tea!  [Feeding  them.]  There!  There!  Oh, 
what  a  splendid  supper  we're  having ! 

THE  EMPRESS 

The  dear  child!    I  must  put  on  her  crown  and  oysters 
before  the  guests  arrive. 

THE  EMPEROR 

And  we  must  give  her  our  birthday  presents,  too.   Where 
is  she? 

THORA 

Off  in  some  corner,  I  suppose. 

LONA 
Playing  with  her  doll! 

THORA 
Or  pretending  that  she  is  a  human  being! 

SWANHILD 

[Singing  to  herself  as  she  feeds  the  fish.] 
Little  fishes  of  the  sea, 
Give  my  baby  wishes  three  — 
A  cap  of  stars  to  bind  his  hair 
And  shine  about  him  everywhere  — 

[Breaking  of  to  speak  to  the  fish.]  Oh!  Oh!  You  mustn't  be 
greedy!  That  wasn't  meant  for  him,  was  it?  Here  — 
catch  this!  So!  [Singing.] 

A  chain  of  jewels  for  his  neck, 
The  treasure  of  the  sunken  wreck  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  7 

[Breaking  of.]  Stop  it!  You  naughty  fish!  Give  the  little 
ones  a  chance!  You're  a  glutton  —  do  you  hear?  that's 
what  you  are!  A  fat  little  glutton!  Are  you  sorry?  Will 
you  never,  never,  never  do  it  again?  Well  —  that's  better ! 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Below.]  Swanhild!  Swanhild!     Where  in  the  sea  has 
that  child  gone  to? 

SWANHILD 

[Singing.]    And  best  of  all  things  in  this  life, 
A  little  mermaid  for  his  wife. 

THORA 

There  she  is! 

LONA 

Feeding  those  miserable  minnows! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Swanhild! 

SWANHILD 

[Singing.]    Little  fishes  of  the  sea, 

Give  my  baby  wishes  three  — 
[Breaking  off.]  Oh,  daddy,  are  you  calling  me? 

THE  EMPEROR 
Indeed  I  am!    Come  here  this  minute! 

SWANHILD 

I'm  coming!     [To  the  fish.]  There  — that's  all.     Now 
swim  away,  sweethearts  —  swim  away!    [They  do  so.    She 


8  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

picks  up  her  doll,  shoots  out  the  window,  and  perches  affec 
tionately  on  the  arm  of  her  father's  throne.]  Well,  here  I  am! 
[She  kisses  the  top  of  his  head.]  Now,  what  do  you  want? 

THE  EMPEROR 

You  little  scollop!  Who  would  ever  think  you  were  fif 
teen  years  old! 

SWANHILD 
Fifteen!  Fifteen!  Fifteen!    Oh!  Oh!  How  glad  I  am! 

THE  EMPEROR 

But  the  fact  remains,  my  dear.  You  are  now  grown-up. 
And  so  your  grandmother  and  I  give  you  these  with  our 
best  love  and  our  birthday  compliments.  [He  gives  her  a 
small  box.] 

SWANHILD 

Presents!  May  I  open  it  now?  [He  nods.  She  does  so.] 
O-oh!  Just  what  I  wanted!  [She  takes  out  a  golden  comb 
and  mirror.]  You  darlings —  !  Thank  you!  Thank  you! 
[She  gives  them  both  a  hug  and  a  kiss.]  Look —  !  Thora! 
Lona!  Aren't  they  magnificent? 

THORA 

[Taking  comb.]  Too  magnificent  for  you,  Swanhild!  [She 
begins  to  comb  her  hair.] 

LONA 

[Taking  the  mirror.]  Why,  they  are  almost  finer  than 
ours!  [She  looks  at  herself  in  the  mirror  and  straightens  her 
crown.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  9 

SWANHILD 

Daddy,  now  that  I  am  grown-up,  can  I  go  with  Thora 
and  Lona  when  they  rise  to  the  surface  of  the  sea?  Oh,  can 
I?  Tell  me  — tell  me  quick! 

THE  EMPEROR 
Of  course  you  can. 

SWANHILD 
Oh—! 

THE  EMPEROR 

And  you  will  sit  on  the  rocks  and  comb  your  hair  and 
sing  —  as  all  well-brought-up  young  mermaids  have  done 
since  time  immemorial  on  arriving  at  the  age  of  fifteen. 

SWANHILD 
[Suddenly.]  Good-bye. 

THE  EMPEROR 
Dear,  dear!    Where  are  you  going? 

SWANHILD 
[Above  him.]  Up  there! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Come  down!  Come  down!  You  must  wait  till  sunset. 
That's  the  appointed  time.  And  then,  with  proper  cere 
mony,  your  sisters  will  conduct  you. 


io  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Sinking.]  Oh,  I  have  waited  so  long!  All  my  life  has 
been  a  dream  of  the  great  world  of  men  and  the  happy 
ones  who  live  above  the  sea! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Prut!  How  you  talk!  Are  you  not  happy  down  here  in 
the  water? 

SWANHILD 

Yes  —  yes !  I  love  you  and  grandmummy  and  Thora 
and  Lona  and  my  dolls  and  my  fish.  I  love  the  blue  trees 
and  their  golden  fruit  and  the  glittering  sands.  My  own 
beautiful  home.  But  oh!  I'm  afraid  I  want  more  than 
just  the  things  I  can  see  and  touch  and  love  —  yes,  dear, 
no  matter  how  sweet  those  things  may  be! 

THE  EMPEROR 
But  what  more  is  there? 

SWANHILD 

I  cannot  tell  —  but  I  know  it  is  very  wonderful  —  and 
I  want  to  go  up  —  and  up  —  and  up  —  until  — 

THE  EMPEROR 

Until  what? 

SWANHILD 

Until  I  find  it,  dear. 

THE  EMPRESS 
Mercy  on  us! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  n 

SWANHILD 

So  that  is  why  I  made  my  garden  round  like  the  sun  and 
filled  it  with  red  flowers,  the  color  of  the  sun  as  it  shines 
down  here  through  the  water. 

THORA 

[Slyly.]  And  is  that  why  you  set  up  in  the  midst  of  it 
the  statue  of  the  man  which  you  found  in  that  wreck? 

LONA 

With  those  two  great  ugly  shanks  instead  of  a  tail! 

SWANHILD 

[To  her  doll.]  They're  laughing  at  us,  dearest  —  but  we 
don't  care !  Our  long  dream's  over  —  at  sunset  we're  going 
to  wake  —  and  lift  our  eyes  —  and  swim  up  to  the  air  and 
the  stars  and  the  sky!  [Kissing  the  doll.}  Oh,  my  darling, 
darling  child!  I'm  the  happiest  little  mermaid  in  the  sea! 
[She  swims  round  and  round  in  a  transport  of  joy,  waving  her 
doll,  half -laughing,  half-crying.  The  Chief  Cook  swims  in 
distractedly  from  the  palace.  He  is  a  fat  red  fish  in  cap  and 
apron,  carrying  a  huge  ladle.] 

THE  CHIEF  COOK 

[As  he  enters.]  Your  Majesty  —  a  thousand  pardons  — 
my  intrusion  —  a  great  catastrophe  — 

THE  EMPEROR 
What  is  it  — quick! 


12  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  EMPRESS 
Be  calm,  cook  —  be  calm ! 

THE  Cooz 
The  shepherd  fish  — 

THE  EMPEROR 
Yes  —  yes! 

THE  EMPRESS 
Well,  cook? 

THE  COOK 

He  has  broken  into  the  cellar  and  drunk  up  all  the  wine 
for  the  banquet! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Not  an  —  ? 

THE  COOK 

Every  bottle,  your  Majesty  —  and  swallowed  the  corks 
into  the  bargain! 

THE  EMPRESS 
Deary  me! 

THE  EMPEROR 
The  shark!  He  might  have  left  a  little! 

THE  COOK 

And  that  is  not  the  worst!  Having  drunk  the  wine,  he 
forgot  to  fetch  home  the  sea-cows.  Being  no  sea-cows, 
there  is  no  milk.  Being  no  milk,  there  is  no  cream.  Being 
no  cream,  there  is  no  butter.  And,  without  butter,  how 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  13 

can  I  make  the  pie  of  dolphins'  hearts  and  the  tongues  of 
angel-fish  that  your  Majesty  has  commanded  for  the  feast? 


THE  EMPEROR 
No  pie? 

THORA 

No  pie  —  ? 

LONA 

No  —  pie  —  ? 

THE  EMPRESS 

Ssh!  Do  not  fear,  my  children !  Trust  your  old  grand 
mother  !  She  will  bake  that  pie  without  butter  —  or  lose 
her  tail  in  the  attempt.  Cook!  Give  us  your  arm!  We 
go  to  the  kitchen!  [She  takes  the  Cook's  arm  and  they  both 
swim  of  into  the  palace} 

THE  EMPEROR 

[To  the  Captain  of  the  Guard.]  Quick,  Captain !  Mount 
your  fish  on  sea-horses  and  scatter  over  the  prairies.  There 
is  no  time  to  lose  —  the  cows  must  be  found!  Herald, 
climb  the  tower  and  blow  three  blasts  on  your  conch-shell 
when  you  see  the  first  guest  coming  from  afar.  I  myself 
will  go  down  to  the  cellar  and  search  amid  the  ruins  for 
bottles  that  the  monster  may  have  spared!  [To  himself.] 
Pie  without  butter  —  dear!  dear!  Can  such  things  be? 
[He  swims  into  the  palace,  shaking  his  head.] 

THE  CAPTAIN  OF  THE  GUARD 

[To  his  fish.]  Carry  —  arms!  Present  —  arms!  Right- 
fin —  arms!  To  the  stables  —  forward  —  swim!  [They 


14  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

swim  off  in  military  fashion,  led  by  their  captain.    The  three 
princesses  are  left  alone] 

SWANHILD 

Thora,  do  you  think  —  do  you  think  the  air  above  the 
sea  will  hurt  my  doll?  You  know  she  has  been  delicate 
since  she  lost  her  arm. 

THORA 

[Glancing  at  Lona  and  smiling.}  I'm  sure  it  will. 

SWANHILD 

Oh  dear! 

LONA 

But  you  cannot  play  with  that  old  doll  any  more. 

THORA 

Now  that  you  are  fifteen,  Swanhild,  you  must  give  up 
those  wretched  toys  at  once. 

SWANHILD 

[Kissing  her  doll  and  whispering.}  They  say  you  can't  go 
with  me,  sweetheart  —  and  I  know  just  how  you  would 
have  loved  it,  too.  [She  swims  to  her  garden,  kneels,  and 
begins  busily  digging  in  the  sand.} 

THORA 
What  in  the  sea  are  you  doing  now? 

SWANHILD 

[Working  away]  You  said  I  could  not  play  with  dolls 
any  more.  So  I  am  burying  the  darling  here  in  my  garden, 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  15 

and  when  I  am  old  and  married  and  have  a  little  mermaid 
of  my  own,  why,  don't  you  see  I  can  come  here  and  pick  a 
dear  little  doll  for  her  —  right  off  the  dolltree  I  planted  so 
long  ago!  [She  smooths  of  the  little  mound  of  sand.} 

LONA 

Was  there  ever  such  a  simpleton? 

THORA 
And  our  family  has  always  been  so  clever! 

SWANHILD 

Ah,  don't  be  cross!  Remember  —  it's  my  birthday! 
Dear  Thora  —  dear  Lona !  Will  you  do  something  to  make 
me  happy?  Will  you  tell  me  —  just  once  more  —  about 
the  world  up  there  —  the  big  world  that  I  shall  see  so  soon? 

THORA 
Why  are  you  so  interested  in  that  stupid  old  world? 

LONA 
Always  pestering  and  bothering  us  to  tell  you  things 

about  it! 

SWANHILD 

[Sighing.]  Very  well.  [She  turns  away.  Thora  catches 
Lona's  eye,  points  to  Swanhild,  then  to  their  gardens,  and 
makes  a  gesture  of  working.] 

LONA 

[To  Swanhild,  after  nodding  to  Thora]  Swanhild  dear, 
considering  it  is  your  birthday,  Thora  and  I  will  be  good- 
natured  and  tell  you  anything  you  want  — 


16  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

You  darlings! 

THORA 

That  is,  if  you  will  just  pull  up  all  the  weeds  and  pick  off 
all  the  snails  and  generally  tidy  up  our  gardens  before 
papa  comes  back. 

SWANHILD 

Of  course  I  will.    Which  shall  I  do  first? 

LONA 

Mine. 

SWANHILD 
[Beginning  to  work  on  it.]  Now  tell  me  about  the  world. 

LONA 

[Swimming  lazily  about,  posing,  always  looking  at  herself 
in  the  golden  mirror.]  Foolish  child!  Well,  with  what  shall 
I  begin? 

SWANHILD 

The  flowers  that  are  full  of  fragrance  and  the  little  fish 
that  swim  among  the  trees  —  and  sing/ 

LONA 

Ah,  those  are  nothing!  But  listen  to  this!  Last  week  I 
swam  up  a  broad  river  which  flows  into  the  sea.  I  saw 
beautiful  green  hills  and  palaces  —  and  the  sun  was  so  hot 
I  had  to  dive  every  minute  or  so  to  cool  my  face.  At  last 
I  came  to  a  tiny  bay  —  and  what  do  you  think  I  found 
there? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  17 

SWANHILD 

[Transfixed.]  Oh  tell  me! 

LONA 

A  troop  of  little  human  beings  —  [Breaking  ojf.]  But 
go  on  with  your  work  or  else  I  stop ! 

SWANHILD 
[Suddenly  active.]  I'm  working!    See  —  I'm  working! 

LONA 

Where  was  I?  Oh  yes  —  little  human  beings  running 
about  on  their  funny  white  legs  and  actually  swimming 
in  the  water! 

SWANHILD 
Yes  —  go  on! 

LONA 

And  then  a  small  black  animal  that  the  children  called  — 
let  me  think!  what  was  it?  Rover?  —  saw  me  and  made  a 
terrible  noise  and  oh!  how  frightened  I  was!  Why,  my  tail 
trembled  so  that  I  could  hardly  swim!  It  was  only  by 
sheer  force  of  character  that  I  managed  to  dive  and  make 
for  the  open  sea.  There  was  an  adventure  if  you  like! 

SWANHILD 

Green  hills  —  palaces!  Lovely  little  human  beings  that 
run  about  on  beautiful  white  legs!  Oh,  thank  you,  dear 
Lona  —  look!  your  garden  is  all  done!  Not  a  single  snail! 
[Going  to  the  other  garden.]  Now,  Thora,  you  tell  me!  Tell 
me  what  you  love  to  do  more  than  anything  else  when  you 
go  up  there! 


i8  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THORA 

[Reclining,  as  she  combs  her  hair.]  The  thing  I  dislike 
least  is  to  rise  up  far  from  land,  where  you  can  see  for 
miles  around  you  and  the  sky  is  like  a  great  glass  dome. 
Then  you  can  watch  the  dolphins  turning  somersaults  — 
so  amusing!  — and  the  great  whales  squirting  water 
through  their  noses! 

SWANHILD 

0-oh!    Aren't  you  afraid? 

THORA 

As  if  I  couldn't  swim  faster  than  a  whale!  And  then 
sometimes  the  sea  is  green  and  cold,  and  the  icebergs  float 
about,  each  one  shining  like  a  pearl  and  higher  than  the 
church  towers  built  by  men. 

SWANHILD 
[Pausing  in  ecstasy.]  Oh,  Thora! 

THORA 
Go  on !    Keep  weeding ! 

SWANHILD 
[Suddenly  busy.]  I  am! 

THORA 

Often  and  often  I've  climbed  up  on  the  biggest  I  could 
find.  And  all  the  passing  ships  have  flown  off  like  sea-gulls 
when  they  saw  me  lying  there,  with  my  long  hair  streaming 
in  the  wind! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  19 

SWANHILD 

Thora,  how  glorious ! 

THORA 
Have  you  straightened  all  my  shells? 

SWANHILD 

Yes  —  every  one.  Oh,  how  could  you  leave  such  mar 
vels?  How  could  you  bear  to  say  good-bye  and  come  down 
again  —  into  the  dull  old  sea ! 

LONA 
How  young  you  are,  Swanhild! 

THORA 
How  little  you  understand  life! 

LONA 
Never  mind! 

THORA 

You'll  soon  learn  that  when  a  thing  is  no  longer  forbid 
den,  its  charm  is  gone. 

LONA 

When  you  can  go  anywhere,  you  don't  mind  staying  at 
home. 

THORA 

And  although,  of  course,  it  is  great  fun  to  race  with  ships 
when  the  wind  is  high  — 

LONA 

And  to  beat  them,  too! 


20  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[In  delight.}  Oh!   Oh! 

LONA 

One  decides  in  the  course  of  a  month  or  so  that,  on  the 
whole,  home  is  best. 

SWANHILD 

I'll  never  feel  that  way!  I  know!  I  know!  [Suddenly, 
as  she  glances  up.}  Oh,  look!  What's  that?  [A  chest,  evi 
dently  fallen  overboard,  appears  from  above,  sinking  slowly 
in  circles.  A  school  of  little  fish  dart  up  to  examine  it] 

THORA 

A  treasure  chest! 

LONA 

What  luck! 

THORA 

Come  on!    [They  swim  quickly  up  towards  it,  Swanhild 

following] 

LONA 

[To  the  fish.]  Go  away,  you  little  fish!    Shoo!    [They 
swim  away  j  frightened] 

THORA 

[Seizing  one  end  of  the  chest]  It's  mine! 

LONA 

[Seizing  the  other  end]  It's  mine! 

THORA 
I  touched  it  first! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  21 

LONA 

Oh,  what  a  story! 

THORA 
Didn't  I,  Swanhild? 

SWANHILD 

But  I  saw  it.    Oh,  won't  you  give  me  just  a  little  of  the 
treasure? 

LONA 
I'll  tell  you.    We'll  divide  it  equally!    How's  that? 

THORA 
Of  course  it  really  is  all  mine  — 

LONA 

Now !    Now ! 

THORA 

But  I'm  willing  to  be  generous.    [The  chest  now  rests  on 
the  bottom.]    Is  it  locked? 

SWANHILD 
Yes,  but  the  key's  here.    [She  unlocks  it.]  So! 

f 

LONA 

Now  open  the  lid!    [They  do  so.]  I'm  first,  because  I'm 
oldest! 

SWANHILD 
Quick! 


22  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THORA 

Begin!  [Each  swoops  down  in  turn,  plunges  her  hand 
into  the  chest,  and  swims  off  again  in  triumph,  showing  her 
prize.} 

LONA 

[Waving  a  long  sailor's  pipe.]  Look !    Look ! 

THORA 
My  turn!    [As  she  comes  up  with  a  black  bottle.] 

SWANHILD 

Is  it  good? 

THORA 
[Who  has  put  the  bottle  to  her  mouth.]  Ugh!    Nasty! 

SWANHILD 
[Coming  up  with  a  crucifix.]  See  this! 

THORA 
What  is  it? 

LONA 

7  don't  know  —  [Bringing  up  a  knife.]  Look  out!  I'm 
going  to  cut  off  your  tail !  [She  pursues  Thora  with  screams 
of  laughter.] 

THORA 

[Bringing  up  a  pack  of  cards.]  Look  at  these!  All  red  — 
and  black  —  and  oh!  the  splendid  people  who  have  heads 
both  ways!  [She  scatters  the  cards  through  the  water.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  23 

SWANHILD 

[Diving  down  and  coming  up  with  a  flute.]  What's  this? 
Oh  tell  me  —  quick ! 

LONA 

Blow  in  the  holes  —  [Swanhild  does  so  and  the  flute 
sounds.]  Did  you  hear  that? 

SWANHILD 
[Breaking  of.]  Why,  it's  music! 

LONA 

[Dragging  forth  a  long  pair  of  sea-boots.]  Thora,  look! 
[She  puts  her  arms  into  them.]  I'm  a  man!  I'm  a  man! 

THORA 

[Doing  the  same  with  a  pair  of  red  woolen  stockings.]  Just 
wait  a  moment!  [As  she  puts  them  on  her  arms.]  There! 
I  am,  too ! 

SWANHILD 

[Diving  down.]  I  want  to  be  a  man!  [At  the  chest.]  Oh 
dear,  it's  empty!  [Feeling  about  in  it.]  No  —  no!  [Draw 
ing  out  a  pair  of  large,  horn  spectacles.]  Do  men  wear  these? 

LONA 
Put  the  ends  over  your  ears. 

THORA 

[As  Swanhild  does  so.]  Look  at  her!  Look  at  her!  [She 
and  Lona  scream  with  laughter.] 


24  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Laughing,  too,  as  she  peers  through  the  spectacles.]  Oh, 
how  funny  and  big  everything  is !  Am  I  a  man  like  you  and 
Thora? 

LONA 

[Diving  down.]  Of  course!  We're  all  men  now !  [Picking 
up  an  old  pigskin-covered  book  from  the  bottom  of  the  chest.] 
Here  —  catch,  my  boy!  [She  throws  it  at  Thora.] 

SWANHILD 

[Screaming.]  Throw  it  to  me!  Throw  it  to  me!  [Thora 
does  so.]  Lona,  are  you  ready?  [She  throws  it  to  Lona. 
They  are  all  three  swimming,  dodging,  diving  about,  tossing 
the  book  from  one  to  another  like  children  playing  ball.] 

THORA 

[As  Swanhild  misses  the  book  and  it  falls  in  her  garden.] 
Oh!  Missed  it!  You  silly!  [She  drops  on  the  rocking-horse 
in  her  own  garden,  and  begins  to  rock  violently  to  and  fro, 
screaming.]  Getap!  Getap! 

LONA 

[Swimming  up  to  the  pilot's-wheel  in  her  garden.]  Star 
board!  Port!  Ay,  ay,  sir!  [She  turns  the  wheel  and  shouts 
with  laughter.] 

SWANHILD 

[Sinking  to  her  own  garden  and  putting  her  arms  tenderly 
around  the  neck  of  the  statue  in  its  centre.]  My  dear  —  my 
dear!  [She  kisses  it.  The  doors  to  the  palace  open.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  25 

THORA 

[Slipping  of  her  rocking-horse.]  Sst!  Grandmamma! 
[The  three  mermaids  gather  soberly  in  a  row  and  curtsey 
deeply  as  the  old  Empress  swims  slowly  in,  carrying  a  small 
bag  and  a  box  under  her  arm.] 

THE  EMPRESS 

I  heard  you,  you  naughty  young  cat-fish!  Never  dare 
to  tell  me  again  you  are  grown-up! 

THORA 
But,  grandmamma  — 

THE  EMPRESS 

Ssh!  Be  off  with  you!  Go  in  and  help  lay  the  table  for 
the  banquet  —  or  are  you  too  old  for  such  simple  occupa 
tions? 

LONA 

Just  as  you  say,  dear  grandmamma.  [She  and  Thora 
swim  of  together.] 

THE  EMPRESS 

[To  herself.]  Lazy  young  good-for-nothings !  Times  have 
changed  since  I  was  a  little  mermaid!  [As  Swanhild  is 
about  to  follow  her  sisters.]  Hi!  Don't  you  go! 

SWANHILD 
[Turning  at  door.]  Me,  grandma? 


26  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Sitting  on  her  throne.]  Yes,  you,  my  small  clam !  I  have 
something  to  tell  you.  Come !  Sit  here  at  my  tail !  [Swan- 
hild  obeys  her.  During  the  following  scene  the  pale  blue  light 
of  the  submarine  day  changes  to  the  pink  glow  of  twilight. 
The  sea  is  shot  with  -violet  shadows.  The  red  rays  of  the 
setting  sun  shine  through  the  water  upon  the  enthroned  Em 
press  and  the  little  princess  coiled  at  her  side.] 

SWANHILD 

What  is  it,  grandma? 

THE  EMPRESS 

Ah,  my  dear,  this  is  a  happy  day  for  my  poor  old  heart! 
To  see  my  own  little  minnow  grown  into  such  a  blooming 
young  mermaiden!  Why,  it  seems  only  yesterday  when 
I  held  you  in  my  arms  —  a  tiny  tadpole  with  a  bald  head 
and  not  so  much  as  one  scale  on  your  little  tail!  Prut! 
how  the  years  slip  by! 

SWANHILD 
Dear  grandma! 

THE  EMPRESS 

If  only  your  young  mother  had  lived,  I  could  not  ask  for 
more !  Ah  well !  There  are  still  plums  in  the  pudding  — 
and  I  have  you,  my  little  smelt.  See  now  —  it  is  time  for 
you  to  dress  as  becomes  your  rank!  Let  me  adorn  you 
like  your  sisters!  [She  has  opened  the  box  and  taken  out  a 
wreath  of  lilies,  made  of  pearls  and  silver,  which  she  now  puts 
on  Swanhild's  head.]  So! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  27 

SWANHILD 

Won't  —  won't  it  fall  off  when  I  dive  and  play? 

THE  EMPRESS 

Of  course.  But  princesses  never  do  such  things.  They 
hold  their  heads  straight  and  swim  slowly.  Put  up  your 
tail,  little  tadpole.  [She  opens  her  bag.] 

SWANHILD 
[Doing  so.]  Why,  grandma? 

THE  EMPRESS 

You'll  see,  my  angel-fish.  [She  takes  an  oyster  out  of  the 
bag  and  fastens  it  to  the  end  of  Swanhild's  tail.] 

SWANHILD 
[With  a  little  shriek.]  Oh  —  !    Stop  it! 

THE  EMPRESS 

Tut!  Tut!  When  I  was  your  age,  I  wore  fifteen.  [She 
fastens  on  another.]  Don't  wriggle! 

SWANHILD 
But  it  hurts  so,  grandma! 

THE  EMPRESS 

You  must  endure  the  pain  for  the  sake  of  the  finery. 
Hold  still!  [She  puts  on  another.} 


28  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[In  spite  of  herself.]  Ouch!  [Recovering.]  Grandma,  do 
human  beings  live  forever?  Is  it  true  they  never  die,  as 
we  die  down  here  under  the  sea? 

THE  EMPRESS 

No,  my  little  shrimp!  You  are  quite  mistaken.  Of 
course  they  die,  and  their  lifetime  is  far  shorter  than  our 
own.  But  in  the  end  they  have  the  best  of  it.  For  though, 
if  lucky,  we  live  three  hundred  years,  when  at  last  we  die 
we  turn  into  foam  on  the  water  and  do  not  find  so  much  as 
a  grave  among  our  dear  ones.  We  have  no  immortal 
souls  —  we  have  no  life  to  come.  Lift  your  tail  higher,  my 
tadpole.  So!  We  are  just  like  the  green  seaweed  that, 
once  cut  down,  can  never  revive  again! 

SWANHILD 
And  men? 

THE  EMPRESS 

Men,  on  the  other  hand,  have  a  soul  that  lives  forever  — 
lives  after  the  body  has  become  dust.  It  rises  through  the 
clear  air  —  up  to  the  shining  stars !  Just  as  we  rise  from 
the  water  to  the  land  above,  so  they  float  up  to  strange 
and  beautiful  shores  which  we  shall  never  know! 

SWANHILD 

I  would  give  all  my  three  hundred  years  to  be  a  human 
being  for  just  one  day,  and  afterwards  to  find  that  kingdom 
beyond  the  sky! 

THE  EMPRESS 

Come,  come!  You  must  not  be  thinking  about  such 
things!  After  all,  we  are  much  better  off  than  human 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  29 

beings!  [Taking  an  oyster  from  her  bag.]  See  now!  This 
is  the  last  one!  [Putting  it  on.]  There!  How  pretty  you 
look,  child! 

SWANHILD 

What  difference  does  that  make  if  I  must  die,  and  float 
as  foam  on  the  water,  and  never  hear  the  singing  of  the 
waves  nor  see  the  beautiful  flowers  or  the  red  light  of  my 
dear,  dear  friend  the  sun? 

THE  EMPRESS 
Tut!    Tut! 

SWANHILD 

Oh,  grandma,  you  who  are  so  good  and  wise  —  tell  me! 
Is  there  no  way  for  little  mermaids  to  gain  an  immortal 
soul? 

THE  EMPRESS 

None,  my  precious  clam! 

SWANHILD 

What  —  ? 

THE  EMPRESS 

I  mean  —  none  worth  trying. 

SWANHILD 

There  is  a  way,  then!  Tell  me,  grandma,  tell  me  —  tell 
me  quick! 

THE  EMPRESS 

Hoity-toity!  How  eager  we  are!  Can  my  little  shrimp 
keep  a  secret? 


30  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

Yes  —  yes  — 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Bending  over  and  lowering  her  voice.]  Well  then,  I  re 
member  my  own  grandmother  telling  me  when  I  was  a  tiny 
mermaid  —  and  she  had  it  from  hers  —  who  —  ssh!  bend 
closer!  —  was  a  friend  of  the  Sea  Witch! 

SWANHILD 

The  wicked  Sea  Witch  who  lives  forever  and  knows 
everything? 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Glancing  about  anxiously.]  Ssh  —  !  At  all  events,  this 
is  it! 

SWANHILD 

[Whispering.]  Tell  me! 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Whispering.]  If  a  human  being  so  loved  you  that  you 
were  dearer  to  him  than  father  or  mother,  if  he  loved  you 
so  much  that  he  would  let  the  priest  join  your  hands  in 
marriage  and  would  vow  to  be  faithful  to  you  here  and  to 
all  eternity  — 

SWANHILD 
Goon! 

THE  EMPRESS 

Then  into  your  body  would  come  half  his  soul! 

SWANHILD 
Ah—! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  31 

THE  EMPRESS 

And  when  your  body  died,  your  soul,  with  his,  would 
fly  to  what  mankind  calls  Paradise! 

SWANHILD 

Paradise  —  ! 

THE  EMPRESS 
But  of  course,  my  little  sea-flower,  all  this  can  never  be. 

SWANHILD 
Why? 

THE  EMPRESS 

Why  —  ?  Listen  to  the  tadpole!  Because,  my  dear 
what  is  considered  your  greatest  beauty  down  here  in  the 
sea  — 

SWANHILD 

My  tail? 

THE  EMPRESS 

Your  tail  —  the  elegant  slimness  of  which  you  inherit 
directly  from  myself!  —  would  up  on  earth  be  considered 
hideous!  To  be  pretty  there  you  must  have  two  clumsy 
supports  which  they  call  —  what  is  it?  —  legs! 

SWANHILD 
[Sighing.]  Heigho !    [She  looks  down  sadly  at  her  tail.] 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Affectionately]  Little  minnow  with  silver  fins !  Come  — 
be  gay!  Let  us  hop,  skip  and  jump  during  our  three  hun- 


32  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

died  years  of  life!  It  is  surely  a  long  enough  time  and  at 
the  end  we  —  [She  is  interrupted  by  the  Emperor,  who  comes 
swimming  out  of  the  palace.] 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Genially,  as  he  enters]  Well,  mother?  Have  you  told 
her  the  news?  Was  the  little  codfish  pleased?  Did  she 
clap  her  little  hands?  Did  she  wag  her  little  tail?  Did 
she  — 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Interrupting]  Wait!  Wait!  The  silly  shrimp  has  been 
so  busy  asking  questions  about  the  earth  and  human  be 
ings,  that  I  have  had  no  chance  to  say  a  word. 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Seated  on  his  throne]  What?  Then  she  knows  nothing 
of  her  luck? 

THE  EMPRESS 

No  more  than  a  blind  oyster! 

SWANHILD 
Daddy!    What  is  it?    What  is  my  luck? 

THE  EMPEROR 

Come!  Sit  on  my  lap!  [She  obeys]  So!  [He  pinches  her 
ear  and  laughs]  My  little  lump  of  ambergris!  Do  you 
know  that  you  are  very  pretty? 

SWANHILD 

[Covering  his  mouth  with  her  hand]  Ssh!  Now  for  the 
news! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  33 

THE  EMPEROR 

Well,  what  would  my  small  frog  say  if  I  told  her  she 
was  going  to  be  married? 

SWANHILD 
Married  —  ? 

THE  EMPEROR 

Yes,  and  to  no  less  a  monarch  than  the  Emperor  of  the 
Crabs! 

SWANHILD 
Not  me! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Who  else?  Have  no  fear  —  it  is  all  arranged!  So  you 
must  be  especially  polite  to  him  at  the  ball  tonight,  as  he  is 
several  hundred  years  old  and  is  coming  only  out  of  com 
pliment  to  you !  Well,  what  do  you  say?  See  now,  mother ! 
The  little  frog  is  speechless  with  delight! 

THE  EMPRESS 

No  wonder!  Empress  of  the  Crabs!  And  she  a  tadpole 
of  fifteen! 

SWANHILD 

But,  grandma,  I  think  —  I  think  that  I  am  far  too  young 
to  marry! 

THE  EMPRESS 

Prut !  When  I  was  your  age  not  only  was  I  married,  but 
the  mother  of  twins! 

SWANHILD 

But,  Daddy  dear  —  I  have  seen  him  only  twice! 


34  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  EMPEROR 
That  makes  no  difference!  Consider  how  great  he  is! 

THE  EMPRESS 
How  rich! 

THE  EMPEROR 
How  splendid! 

SWANHILD 
I  —  I'm  afraid  of  crabs! 

THE  EMPEROR 
Does  this  mean  you  won't  marry  him? 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  I  can't  —  I  can't  — 

THE  EMPEROR 

[In  a  rage.]  Swanhild  —  !    [Enter  Thora  and  Lona  from 
the  palace.] 

THORA 

[Entering.]  The  table's  set. 

LONA 
Is  anything  wrong? 

THE  EMPEROR 

Wrong  —  !    Your  sister  has  been  asked  in  marriage  by 
the  Emperor  of  the  Crabs  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  35 

LONA 

[Interrupting.]  Thora! 

THORA 
My  dear! 

THE  EMPEROR 
And  now  the  little  bubble  is  refusing  him! 

SWANHILD 

He's  a  dreadful,  ugly,  horrible  old  monster  with  red  eyes 
and  warts  all  over  his  claws  and  — 

THE  EMPEROR 
Silence! 

SWANHILD 

[Continuing.]  And  I  don't  care  how  great  or  rich  or 
splendid  he  is,  I  wouldn't  take  him  for  all  the  treasure  in 
the  sea  — 

THE  EMPEROR 
Silence,  I  say! 

SWANHILD 

[Rushing  on.]  Why,  I'd  fifty  hundred  times  rather  die 
an  old  maid  than  marry  any  fish  —  no  matter  who  he  is ! 
So  there  now! 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Thundering]  Be  still! 

SWANHILD 
[Subsiding.]  Well,  I  am. 


36  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  EMPEROR 

So  this  is  what  comes  of  being  a  father!  I  give  a  child 
all  my  love,  all  my  care,  all  my  tenderness  —  and  in  re 
turn  she  squirts  black  venom  in  my  face  like  any  squid! 

THE  EMPRESS 
My  son,  my  son  — 

THE  EMPEROR 

But  I  am  not  finished  with  you  yet,  rebellious  worm! 
No,  you  must  bend  your  neck  —  you  must  obey  my  will, 
or  else,  by  my  Empire,  I  shall  tie  you  to  that  rock  and  pull 
your  scales  out  one  by  one  — 

THORA 

Papa! 

THE  EMPEROR 
And  chop  you  into  meat  to  feed  the  sharks! 

SWANHILD 

[Throwing  her  arms  about  the  Empress's  neck.]  Grand 
ma —  ! 

THE  EMPRESS 

There  —  !   There  —  ! 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Furiously.]  You  eel!  You  toad!  You  wicked  little 
mud-puppy!  I  tell  you  I  —  [He  is  interrupted  by  a  blast  on 
the  conch-shell  from  the  herald  above.]  Is  that  the  conch- 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  37 

shell?    [Another  blast.]  It  is!    The  guests  arrive!    [A  third 
blast.] 

THE  MASTER  OF  CEREMONIES 

[Entering.]  Oh,  Mighty  One  - 

THE  EMPEROR 

Angrily.]  Quick!  Quick!  Let  the  starfish  and  the 
periwinkles  light  their  lamps! 

THE  MASTER  OF  CEREMONIES 

[Turning.]  Miserable  slaves,  do  you  not  hear  the  Im 
perial  command?  [Waving  his  fin.]  Shine!  [In  answer  to 
his  gesturey  from  here,  there,  and  everywhere,  the  starfish  and 
periwinkles  gleam  through  the  water  like  strange  and  brilliant 
fireflies.  They  seem  to  grow  more  luminous  as  the  rosy  twi 
light  fades;  towards  the  end  they  illuminate  the  scene  with  a 
multitude  of  different  colors.] 

THE  CAPTAIN  OF  THE  GUARD 

[Swimming  in  followed  by  his  fish.]  Halt!  Present  — 
arms!  [They  do  so.]  O  Watery  Majesty,  the  sea-cows  are 
found!  Even  now  they  are  being  milked  in  the  royal 
dairy! 

THE  EMPEROR 
Good! 

THE  EMPRESS 
My  pie  is  saved! 

THE  CHIEF  MUSICIAN 
[Coming  in  followed  by  his  musicians.]  Will  your  Divinity 


38  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

deign  to  suggest  what  airs  shall  be  played  at  the  approach 
of  the  royal  guests? 


THE  EMPEROR 

Their  National  Anthems  —  stupid!  And  don't  mix 
them  up! 

THE  HERALD 

[After  blowing  a  blast  on  his  conch-shell.]  His  Serene 
Transparency,  the  Prince  of  the  Jellyfish  and  of  the  Eastern 
Sea! 

THORA 
[Clasping  her  hands]  At  last! 

THE  EMPEROR 

[To  the  Chief  Musician]  Sst!  Did  you  hear  that?  Well, 
begin !  [He  swims  in  an  agitated  manner  back  to  his  throne, 
where  he  sits  and  looks  dignified.  The  royal  family  follow  his 
example.  The  fish  orchestra  plays  a  quasi-Chinese  air,  as, 
with  his  suite,  the  Prince  enters.  He  is  a  languid,  rose- 
colored  young  jellyfish,  carrying  a  little  fan,  and  supported 
by  fish-slaves  in  Chinese  costume.  Behind  him  swims  a  slave 
with  a  large  Chinese  parasol] 

THE  EMPEROR 
Ah,  my  dear  boy! 

THE  EMPRESS 
[Knitting]  And  how  did  you  leave  your  father? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  39 

THE  JELLYFISH  PRINCE 

[Kneeling  with  fan  to  brow.]  Well.  Quite  well,  I  thank 
your  Majesties  —  [To  his  suite.]  Bump  your  heads,  bags 
of  nothingness!  [They  do  so.] 

THORA 
[Fondly.]  Darling!    How  beautiful  you  are  tonight! 

THE  JELLYFISH  PRINCE 
Of  course. 

THORA 
May  I  kiss  you,  dear? 

THE  JELLYFISH  PRINCE 
If  you  do  it  gently.    [She  kisses  him.] 

THE  HERALD 

[After  blowing  another  blast  on  his  conch-shell.]  His  Royal 
Ferocity  the  Rajah  of  the  Turtles! 

LONA 

[Her  hand  at  her  heart.]  Ah,  foolish  heart,  be  still!  [The 
fish-orchestra  plays  some  very  Oriental  music,  as  the  Turtle 
King  enters,  preceded  by  his  attendants.  He  is  a  splendid  big 
turtle,  dressed  as  an  Indian  potentate.] 

THE  EMPEROR 

Well,  my  lad,  I'm  glad  to  see  you!  Been  having  good 
weather  in  your  part  of  the  sea  —  eh? 


40  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  TURTLE  RAJAH 
[Bowing.]  Perfect,  sir  —  I  thank  you. 

THE  EMPRESS 
[Knitting.]  And  your  journey  has  been  comfortable? 

THE  TURTLE  RAJAH 

[Bowing.]  Quite,  ma'am.  Attacked  nine  times  by  sharks. 
Had  some  splendid  fights! 

LONA 
Oh!    Oh!    Are  you  wounded? 

THE  TURTLE  RAJAH 
A  slight  dent  in  my  top  shell  —  that  is  all. 

LONA 

Dearest,  how  brave  you  are!  Always  rushing  into  dan 
ger  !  Always  —  [From far  away  comes  a  strange  and  ominous 
sound,  like  the  rattle  of  a  terrible  drum.  All  turn  and  listen. 
It  is  repeated  nearer.] 

SWANHILD 

[Terrified.]  Daddy,  is  it  —  is  it  —  [A  blast  from  the 
Herald's  conch-shell.] 

THE  HERALD 
[Announcing.]  The  Emperor  of  the  Crabs! 

THE  EMPEROR 

[In  a  loud  whisper  to  the  Chief  Musician.]  Go  on !  Start 
up  the  Crab  Battle-Song!  [The  orchestra,  led  by  the  Chief 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  41 

Musician,  bursts  hurriedly  into  a  quaint  little  tune.  Mean 
while  Swanhild  has  tried  to  swim  away  unbeknownst.  He 
looks  up  just  in  time  to  see  her  escaping  over  his  head.] 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Seizing  her  by  the  tail.]  Hil  Come  back  here !  [Pulling 
her  down.}  You  little  devil-fish!  So  that's  your  game,  is  it? 
Now  if  I  catch  you  again  so  much  as  moving  the  tip  of  your 
tail,  I'll  very  soon  see  you  have  no  tail  to  move! 

SWANHILD 

[Desperately]  Daddy,  don't  make  me  marry  him! 
Please!  Please!  I  tell  you  I  — 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Covering  her  mouth  with  his  hand  and  turning  angrily 
towards  the  Chief  Musician]  Sst!  Sst!  That  isn't  the  Crab 
Battle-Song,  you  old  flounder!  That's  the  Red  Herring 
Hymn! 

THE  CHIEF  MUSICIAN 

[Flurried]  Oh!  My  mistake —  !  [He  changes  to  the 
other.  The  terrible  sound  of  the  drum  is  heard  again,  very 
close.  All  prostrate  themselves,  except  the  royal  family,  who 
rise.  The  Emperor  holds  Swanhild  tightly  by  the  hand. 
Down  the  rocks,  not  swimming,  but  crawling  backwards,  come 
the  guard  of  the  Emperor,  —  silver  crabs,  with  black  drap 
eries.  They  carry  an  old  chest,  covered  with  seaweed  and 
barnacles.  Then  come  four  black  sea-horses,  caparisoned  with 
black-and-silver  trappings,  drawing  a  closed  shell.  The 
horses  stop,  the  shell  opens,  and  the  great,  golden,  wicked  claws 
of  the  Crab  Emperor  rise  up  from  within,  one  carrying  the 


42  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

sceptre  and  the  other,  the  Imperial  orb.  His  body  follows. 
His  shell  is  of  gold  and  he  trails  a  purple  robe.  On  his  head 
is  a  crown  of  diamonds.  Beneath  it,  his  eyes  gleam  red] 


THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 
[Coming  forward]  Welcome,  O  my  cousin  of  the  Crabs! 

THE  EMPRESS 
Power  and  peace  and  glory  greet  you! 

THE  CRAB  EMPEROR 
Where  is  my  bride? 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

Here,  O  my  cousin!  Awaiting  your  approach  with 
modest  rapture!  [To  Swanhild,  who  is  trying  to  hide  behind 
the  throne]  Come  out  of  that,  you  little  squid!  [To  the 
Crab]  Your  splendor  dazzles  the  poor  child!  [To  Swan 
hild]  Come  out  before  I  strangle  you !  [He  seizes  her  hand] 

SWANHILD 
[Under  her  breath]  Oh,  daddy  —  daddy  — 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

[To  the  Crab]  As  you  see,  she  is  somewhat  awkward  and 
unaccustomed  to  ceremony.  But  if  you  take  her  training 
into  your  own  claws,  I  venture  to  prophesy  that  she  will 
do  us  all  credit.  [To  Swanhild]  Smile,  you  little  serpent, 
smile! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  43 

THE  CRAB  EMPEROR 

[Looking  at  Swanhild]  You  are  right,  my  cousin.  She 
will  make  a  most  alluring  Empress!  [Sensation  in  the 
Court] 

SWANHILD 

[As  the  Crab  approaches  her  and  her  father  retires.]  Daddy! 
Don't  leave  me!  [She  clings  to  him] 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

[To  the  Crab]  See  how  affectionate  she  is !  [To  Swanhild] 
Let  go,  leech! 

THE  CRAB 

[Removing  his  diamond  crown  and  putting  it  on  her  head] 
Wear  this  for  me!  [Renewed  sensation  on  the  part  of  the 
Court.  All  whisper] 

THORA 

[To  Lona]  Oh  look,  my  dear! 

LONA 

His  diamond  crown! 

SWANHILD 

Your  Majesty,  it  is  —  so  heavy  —  I  —  oh,  won't  you 
take  it  back?  [She  holds  it  out  to  him] 

THE  CRAB 

A  lighter  one  shall  be  made  in  time  for  the  wedding. 
[To  his  guards]  The  chest!  [They  carry  it  up]  I  heard  it 
was  your  birthday,  so  I  brought  a  little  present  from  my 


44  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

secret  treasure-house.    [To  his  guards.]  Open  it!    [They  do 
so.]  Nothing  much.    A  few  jewels  —  that  is  all. 

SWANHILD 

[With  little  cries  of  admiration  and  delight.]  Oh!  Oh! 
[She  sinks  down,  lifting  great  handfuls  of  stones  and  letting 
them  slide  through  her  fingers.]  Diamonds —  !  Sapphires — ! 
Rubies  —  ! 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

Magnificent! 

THE  EMPRESS 

My  precious  angel-fish! 

THE  CRAB 

[Approaching  Swanhild.]  See  now,  little  bride!  Are  you 
not  going  to  thank  me? 

SWANHILD 
I  do  —  very  much  indeed  — 

THE  CRAB 

Then  suppose  you  show  it,  by  giving  me  a  kiss !  [He  holds 
out  his  great  claws  to  her.] 

SWANHILD 
[Shrinking  back.]  Please  -*-  if  you  don't  mind  — 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

Little  coward,  do  you  think  he'll  eat  you?  [Pushing  her 
forward.]  There!  [The  Crab  enfolds  her  in  his  claws.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  45 

SWANHILD 

[Scr earning  and  struggling.]  Oh,  let  me  go !   Let  me  go  — 

THE  CRAB 

[Releasing  her.]  Come,  come!  What's  this?  Am  I  not 
your  betrothed? 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

[Soothing.]  Allow  me,  O  cousin !  She  is  very  young,  very 
shy  —  the  warmth  of  your  embrace  has  perhaps  frightened 
her  —  you  know  what  little  mermaids  are!  Give  her 
time  —  give  her  time!  Soon  she  will  feel  as  much  at  home 
in  your  claws  as  an  oyster  in  its  shell  — 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Tactfully.]  And  meanwhile,  my  children,  it  is  time  for 
the  ball  to  begin.  Orchestra!  Tune  up!  [To  the  Crab.] 
Will  your  Majesty  lead  off  with  the  Princess  Swanhild? 
[To  the  Jellyfish  and  the  Turtle.]  I  need  not  tell  you  lads 
where  to  find  partners !  [  They  are  already  holding  the  hands 
of  Thora  and  Lona.]  Come  here,  my  son,  and  dance  with 
your  poor  old  mother!  [The  orchestra  plays  a  strange  sort 
of  waltz.  The  dance  begins.] 

THE  CRAB 

[To  Swanhild,  during  the  dance]  My  own  little  crayfish, 
do  you  think  you  can  learn  to  love  me? 

SWANHILD 

[Terrified.]  Oh,  your  Majesty,  you're  hurting  my  hand! 
[The  dance  separates  them] 


46  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  CRAB 
[To  Lona.]  She  is  adorable,  your  little  sister! 

LONA 
Yes,  think  how  we  are  going  to  miss  her! 

SWANHILD 

[To  her  father,  whom  she  meets  in  the  course  of  the  measure.] 
Daddy,  look  where  he  pinched  me!  I  can't  stand  it  —  I 
can't  — 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

Ssh!  Don't  be  a  little  fool!  [Turning  her  round  and 
passing  her  back  to  the  Crab]  Take  her,  dear  cousin!  [A 
black  shadow  moves  slowly  over  the  scene  from  above.] 

THORA 

[Pointing  up]  Look!  What's  that?  [The  music  stops. 
All  pause  and  gaze  upwards.  The  shadow  rests] 

LONA 
[Suddenly  screaming]  A  whale!    A  whale! 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

Swim  for  your  lives!  [A  panic  ensues.  Everyone  darts  for 
cover.  The  starfish  and  periwinkles  go  out  quickly,  one  after 
the  other] 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Distractedly]  Oh,  my  goodness!    Oh,  my  goodness! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  47 

THORA 
[To  the  Jellyfish.]  Quick,  darling !   Hide  behind  this  rock ! 

THE  TURTLE 
[Struggling  with  Lona.}  Let  me  go!    I  am  a  soldier! 

LONA 

[Drawing  him  down]  Never,  never!  He  would  eat  you 
at  a  gulp! 

THE  CRAB 

[Hunting  for  Swanhild.]  Little  bride!  Little  crayfish! 
Where  are  you?  [By  this  time  the  last  periwinkle  has  extin 
guished  itself.  It  is  quite  dark.] 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

[In  the  darkness.]  The  Captain  of  the  Guard!  Captain! 
Captain ! 

THE  VOICE  or  THE  CAPTAIN 
Here,  your  Majesty! 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

Lead  the  attack !  Stab  him  in  the  gills !  It  is  our  only 
chance! 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  CAPTAIN 

In  case  I  am  swallowed,  I  commend  my  wife  and  family 
to  your  Majesty's  care!  [To  his  fish.]  Ranks  —  form! 
Right-fin  —  arms !  Upward  —  swim! 


48  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

Courage,  my  friends!  Even  now  the  enemy  is  being  at 
tacked!  Come,  come!  Stop  crying!  If  we  are  to  be  eaten, 
let  us  be  eaten  bravely,  as  becomes  great  monarchs! 


THORA'S  VOICE 

[Screaming.]  Oh!  Oh!  Something's  swimming  down! 
I  saw  it! 

LONA'S  VOICE 
Save  me!    Save  me! 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  CAPTAIN 

It  is  I,  princess  —  the  Captain  of  the  Guard!  Have  no 
fear! 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 
Have  you  killed  the  whale? 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  CAPTAIN 

Your  Majesty,  it  is  not  a  whale.  It  is  a  royal  ship  that 
furls  her  sails  so  that  all  on  board  may  celebrate  the  birth 
day  of  their  captain,  the  young  king. 

SWANHILD'S  VOICE 
What  king? 

THE  VOICE  OF  THE  CAPTAIN 

The  King  of  the  Blue  Mountains  —  so  I  heard  the  sailors 
say.  [As  the  black  shadow  lightens.}  Look!  it  is  drifting  on! 
[Instant  change  of  mood.  Everyone  can  be  seen  emerging 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  49 

from  his  or  her  hiding-place.    There  is  a  buzz  of  talk  and 
laughter.} 

THE  EMPRESS 

Of  course,  my  dears,  I  knew  all  the  time  it  was  not  a 
whale! 

THE  EMPEROR 

Hi!  You  starfish!  You  periwinkles!  Go  on!  Shine! 
[They  begin  to  come  out  again,  timidly,  one  by  one.}  Look  at 
the  little  cowards!  Why,  they  haven't  the  backbone  of  an 
anchovy!  [A  laugh  from  the  others.  It  is  interrupted  by  the 
faint,  sweet  sound  of  a  horn,  far  away,  over  their  heads.} 

SWANHILD 

Hark!    What  is  that? 

THE  CAPTAIN  OF  THE  GUARD 

The  horn  they  blow  at  sunset  on  the  ship  above.  [Swan- 
hild  hangs  motionless,  looking  up.  Meanwhile  a  great  ship's 
anchor  drifts  slowly  down.] 

THORA 
[Gaily.]  Oh,  look!  look!  look! 

LONA 

Come  on !  Let's  have  a  ride !  [They  dart  up  to  the  anchor 
and  seat  themselves  on  its  bars.} 

THE  EMPRESS 
[Disapprovingly.}  My  dears!    I  forbid  you! 


So  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THORA 
[As  it  drifts  to  the  bottom.]  Take  care! 

LONA 
[Howling.]  Oh!    Oh!    I  pinched  my  tail  —  ! 

THE  EMPRESS 

Serves  you  right!  [There  is  a  burst  of  laughter  and  jeers 
from  the  others.  The  music  is  taken  up  again  by  the  fish- 
orchestra.  The  couples  are  again  formed.  The  dance  goes 
on.] 

THE  CRAB 

[To  Swanhild.]  What  are  you  looking  at,  little  bride? 

SWANHILD 
[Recalled  to  herself.]  I,  your  Majesty?    Oh,  nothing  — 

THE  CRAB 
The  music  has  begun.    Will  you  take  my  claw? 

SWANHILD 

[Swimming  away  from  him.]  Daddy!  Daddy!  It  is 
time  for  me  to  go  up  there! 

THE  CRAB 
[To  Swanhild.]  But  surely  you  will  finish  this  dance? 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 
[To  Swanhild.]  Yes,  yes  —  just  wait  a  bit! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  51 

SWANHILD 

[Interrupting  him.]  Not  a  moment!  [Appealing  to  the 
Empress.]  Grandma! 

THE  EMPRESS 

[To  the  Crab.]  We  rise  up  to  the  air  for  the  first  time  at 
sunset  on  our  fifteenth  birthday  —  an  old  family  custom. 
I  am  sure  you  will  understand. 

THE  CRAB 
Well,  well,  ma'am!    Have  it  your  own  way. 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Calling.]  Thora!  Lona!  It  is  the  hour  to  take  your 
little  sister  on  her  first  voyage  to  the  world  above. 

THORA 

[Stopping  in  her  dance.]  Oh  bother!  [To  the  Jellyfish.] 
Excuse  me,  dearest. 

LONA 

[To  the  Turtle.]  I  am  so  sorry!  Never  mind  —  I  won't 
be  long. 

THORA 
Come  on,  Swanhild! 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

[To  Thora.]  Prut,  my  child!  Have  you  forgotten  the 
ceremony?  [He  claps  his  hands.  The  dance-music  stops. 
Meanwhile  a  servant-fish  has  come  out  of  the  palace,  carrying 
a  tray  of  goblets,  which  he  passes  to  the  guests.] 


52  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  MERMAN  EMPEROR 

[On  his  throne.]  Have  you  all  some  wine?  Yes?  Then 
will  you  join  with  me  in  drinking  to  three  hundred  years 
of  happiness  for  our  little  daughter,  and  when  she  dies 
may  her  foam  rest  lightly  on  the  waves!  I  give  you  the 
Princess  Swanhild!  [He  drinks.] 

THE  JELLYFISH,  THE  TURTLE,  THE  CRAB 
[Together.]  Swanhild!    [They  drink.] 

THE  OTHERS 
[With  a  roar.]  The  Princess  Swanhild!    [They  all  drink.] 

THE  EMPRESS 

[Kissing  her.]  Bless  you,  my  little  clam!  Now  don't 
stay  up  there  too  long,  the  air  is  quite  chilly  sometimes 
and  — 

SWANHILD 

[Interrupting  her.]  Hark!  [The  horn  is  heard  again,  far 
of  and  sad.  Swanhild  listens  with  head  raised.] 

THE  EMPEROR 

Ring  the  great  bell!  Orchestra!  The  Birthday  Song! 
[Thora  and  Lona  gently  take  Swanhild' s  hands.  She  does 
not  notice  them.  She  still  looks  up.]  Are  you  ready? 

THORA 
Yes. 

LONA 
Quite  ready. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  53 

THE  EMPEROR 

[Lifting  his  trident.]  Rise!    [The  bell  sounds.    The  fish- 
orchestra  begins  to  play.] 

THORA  AND  LONA 

[Singing  as  they  drift  slowly  upward.] 

Mermaid,  mermaid,  come  with  me, 
Night  has  fallen  —  you  are  free  — 
All  the  glories  of  the  sea 
Are  yours,  if  you  will  follow  me! 

THOSE  LEFT  BELOW 

[Singing.]    Stars  are  glimmering, 
Sea-fires  shimmering, 
Plunging,  diving  through  the  spray  — 
White  arms  gleaming, 
Long  hair  streaming, 
Over  the  waves  and  far  away! 

THORA 

[Singing.]    Little  sister,  hold  my  hand! 
LONA 

[Singing.]    Follow  me  to  Wonderland!    [The  three  have 
disappeared.] 

THE  VOICES  OF  THORA  AND  LONA 

[Coming  from  above  and  growing  fainter  and  fainter.] 
Mermaid,  mermaid,  come  with  me, 
Night  has  fallen  —  you  are  free  — 
All  the  glories  of  the  sea 
Are  yours  — 
[Their  voices  die  away  and  are  lost  as  the  curtain  falls.] 


SCENE  II 

The  open  sea.  It  is  a  dead  calm.  The  sun  is  setting.  To 
the  left  is  the  prow,  the  fore-mast,  and  part  of  the  deck  of 
the  ship.  The  figurehead  is  a  mermaid.  From  the  mast 
hangs  the  royal  flag.  At  the  prow  is  the  pilot's  wheel. 
Several  sailors  are  working  about  the  rigging,  on  the  cross- 
trees  and  mast-head.  They  are  furling  the  sails.  Others 
are  busy  on  the  deck.  All  are  talking  and  laughing  among 
themselves  as  they  work. 

A  YOUNG  SAILOR  IN  THE  RIGGING 

[Singing  as  he  works.} 

The  sea  is  blue,  the  sky  is  clear, 
The  good  ship  follows  fast  — 

ANOTHER  SAILOR 

[Interrupting  him]  Here,  young  nightingale!    Haul  up 
that  rope! 

THE  YOUNG  SAILOR 

Ay,  ay!    [Continuing  his  song.} 

And  soon  I  shall  be  home,  my  dear. 
And  in  your  arms  at  last  — 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[On  the  deck  below,  having  blown  his  horn]  Now,  lads, 
busy  with  the  anchor! 

54 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  55 

THE  SAILORS 

[On  the  deck]  Coming,  sir,  coming!     [To  each  other] 
Pipe  up,  mates!     [Singing  as  they  drag  forth  the  anchor] 
Down,  down! 
Down,  down! 
Down  goes  the  anchor  to  the  bottom  of  the  sea  — 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[To  the  sailors  in  the  rigging]  Hi,  my  men!    What  are 
you  laughing  at  up  there? 

A  SAILOR 

Has  not  the  King  given  us  a  drink  of  red  wine  from  his 
own  table? 

ANOTHER 

Look !    I  have  washed  my  shirt  in  honor  of  his  birthday ! 

ANOTHER 
I  have  combed  my  beard! 

ANOTHER 
I  have  put  on  my  red  silk  handkerchief! 

ANOTHER 
And  I,  my  golden  earrings! 

THE  STEERSMAN 

Good!     Good!     But  quick  with  your  work!     For  his 
dinner  is  nearly  done  and  you  must  not  be  lumbering  up 


56  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

the  scuppers  when  he  comes  on  deck!    [The  Steersman  goes 
below.] 

ONE  SAILOR 
[Singing  gaily.]    Sing  hey!    Sing  ho! 

THE  OTHERS 

[Joining  him.]    Sing  loud  as  ever  you  can! 

There's  a  bowl  of  wine  beyond  the  brine, 
And  a  kiss  for  every  man! 

ONE  SAILOR 

[After  imitating  loudly  the  sound  of  a  kiss.] 
And  a  kiss  for  every  man! 

[They  all  laugh  and  slap  him  on  the  back.] 

i 

A  VERY  OLD  SAILOR 

Ay,  ay!  Sing  and  be  merry!  But  the  Black  Reef  is  still 
before  us,  mates  —  the  reef  that  has  swallowed  so  many 
ships  and  sent  so  many  brave  souls  to  their  God. 

ONE  SAILOR 
[Nudging  another.]  Listen  to  old  Peter! 

ANOTHER 
The  old  crow's  cawing  again. 

A  THIRD 
The  Black  Reef  will  go  hungry  this  night. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  57 

A  FOURTH 
Why,  the  sea  is  smoother  than  an  old  church-floor! 

PETER 

Ay,  so  it  is.  And  the  sky  is  clear.  Yet  my  big  toes  are 
both  red-hot  with  rheumatism,  and  that  always  means  a 
change  of  weather.  [There  is  a  chorus  of  mocking  laughter.] 

A  SAILOR 
God  help  his  big  toes! 

ANOTHER 
Hark  to  the  prophet! 

A  THIRD  v 

Hail,  O  wizard! 

PETER 

Laugh,  my  masters!  Laugh  while  you  may!  But  last 
night  there  were  three  circles  round  a  gibbous  moon  and 
nine  times  running  have  I  dreamed  of  skeletons!  [The 
laughter  stops.  There  is  a  sudden  superstitious  pause.] 

A  SAILOR 

[Recovering  himself.]  Ah,  go  tell  the  fish  your  night 
mares! 

ANOTHER 
Away  with  him! 

ANOTHER 

Throw  him  overboard! 

[With  gibes  and  laughter  they  drive  the  old  man  of.] 


58  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[Appearing  from  below.]  Is  this  how  you  work?  Shame 
on  you  all!  Clear  the  decks!  Gather  your  musicians  in 
the  starboard  bow !  Are  the  torches  ready? 

A  SAILOR 
Ay,  ay,  sir! 

THE  STEERSMAN 
Quick !    The  feast  is  over !    He  is  coming ! 

THE  SAILORS 

[Singing  as  they  work.]    Sing  hey!    Sing  ho! 

Sing  loud  as  ever  you  can! 

There's  a  bowl  of  wine  — 
[From  below  comes  the  sound  of  men's  laughter.] 

THE  KING'S  VOICE  FROM  BELOW 

[Finishing  the  seamen's  refrain.] 

"  —  beyond  the  brine 
And  a  kiss  for  every  man!" 

THE  SAILORS 

The  King!  The  King!  [Their  cry  rises  to  a  great  shout 
as  up  the  stairs,  in  frolic  mood,  burst  the  young  King  and  his 
six  companions,  —  singing,  shouting,  laughing.] 

BERTRAM 
Saints  above!    What  a  sunset! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  59 

RlNALDO 

Is  the  anchor  down? 

THE  KING 

Yes,  we'll  swim  to  the  world's  end  when  the  stars  come 
out! 

PETER 
[Stepping  forward  and  bowing.]  Your  Majesty  — 

THE  KING 
[Turning.]  Yes,  man.    What  is  it? 

PETER 

Speaking  for  the  crew  as  well  as  for  myself  —  myself 
who'll  be  seventy  years  old  come  Michaelmas  and  has 
sailed  the  seas  since  I  was  no  taller  than  yonder  marlin- 
spike  and  shipped  my  way  through  all  the  wonders  and 
the  marvels  of  the  world  —  [He  is  interrupted  by  a  murmur 
from  the  sailors.] 

A  SAILOR 
[Whispering.]  Sst!    Sst!    The  speech,  man! 

PETER 
[Bewildered.]  Where  was  I  now? 

A  SAILOR 

[Whispering.]  I  wish  your"  Majesty  many  happy  re 
turns  — 


60  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

PETER 

Many  happy  returns  of  this  your  birthday  and  a  long 
reign  —  and  —  and  — 

A  SAILOR 
[Prompting.]  The  most  beautiful  of  princesses  — 

PETER 

The  most  beautiful  of  princesses  for  your  bride.  [A 
little  pause.]  There  was  more  to  the  speech,  your  Majesty, 
but  faith!  I  have  forgotten  the  rest.  [Tenderly.]  God 
bless  you  just  the  same  — 

THE  KING 

[Taking  the  old  man's  hand.]  Thank  you,  Peter.  And 
you,  my  men!  Each  one  of  you  shall  have  a  purse  of  gold 
when  we  come  into  port,  [A  cheer  from  the  sailors.]  And 
now  sit  down,  my  friends.  [Clapping  his  hands.]  Wine! 
And  when  we  have  drunk  once  more,  then  let  the  sailors 
sing! 

[Meanwhile,  in  the  sea  below,  appear  the  heads  of  the  three 
mermaids.  The  sunset  light  falls  upon  their  white  and  drip 
ping  arms.  They  do  not  see  the  ship.] 

THORA 
[Emerging.]  Here  we  are! 

LONA 

You  see  it  is  just  as  we  said  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  61 

THORA 
Nothing  much.    [A  pause.] 

LONA 
[To  Swanhild.]  Well,  do  you  like  it? 

SWANHILD 

[Looking  up  rapturously.]  What  is  the  great  thing  that 
shines  like  gold  above  us? 

THORA 
That  is  the  sky. 

SWANHILD 

And  what  are  the  red  and  purple  splendors  that  float  so 
far  away? 

LONA 

Those  are  clouds  —  stupid!    [Thora  and  Lona  titter  to 
each  other.] 

SWANHILD 

[Pointing.]  And  oh!  what  are  those  beautiful  fish  that 
swim  like  a  long  white  veil  over  the  water? 

THORA 
Those  are  not  fish.    They  are  birds. 

LONA 
They  are  wild  swans,  flying  towards  the  setting  sun. 


62  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

The  sun  —  ?  [She  turns  and  sees  it.  Its  last  long  level 
rays  strike  her  face.]  My  sun  —  [On  board  the  ship,  behind 
her,  the  musicians  begin  to  play.]  Hark  —  ! 

THE  YOUNG  SAILOR 

[Singing.]     The  odors  of  the  twilight 
Sink  upon  the  world, 
The  banners  of  the  evening, 

The  sails  of  day  are  furled  — 
The  first  star  of  evening 
Trembles  in  the  sky, 
Oh,  darling,  do  you  hear  me? 

It  is  I! 

[As  he  sings  Swanhild  slowly  turns  and  for  the  first  time 
sees  the  ship.  The  last  gleam  of  sunlight  falls  upon  the 
King.] 

SWANHILD 

Look!    Look!    The  statue  in  my  garden  — 

THORA 

[Laughing.]  You  foolish  tadpole!  We  are  above  the  sea 
now! 

LONA 

That  is  a  ship.   Those  are  men. 

SWANHILD 

[Always  gazing.]  Men?  Is  that  a  man  who  is  so  —  so 
white  and  glorious? 

THORA 
Which  one? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  63 

SWANHILD 

He  wears  a  golden  crown. 

LONA 
Why,  that's  the  King! 

SWANHILD 
[Whispering.]  Oh,  he  is  beautiful! 

LONA 
[Laughing.]  Listen  to  the  little  minnow ! 

THORA 

[Imitating  Swanhild.]  "  Oh,  he  is  beautiful ! "  [They  both 
laugh  and  swim  about.  Meanwhile  the  sailors  are  laughing 
and  dancing  hornpipes  on  the  deck  above.} 

LONA 
How  clumsily  they  dance  up  there! 

THORA 
One  cannot  be  graceful  on  legs! 

LONA 
The  sun  has  set.    Look  at  that  black  cloud! 

THORA 

The  water  feels  as  if  there  were  going  to  be  a  storm! 
[As  they  speak  a  change  has  come  over  the  scene.    The  twi- 


"164  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

•  light  deepens.  Black  clouds  begin  to  roll  up  in  the  sky.  An 
ominous  light  falls  on  the  sea.  In  their  revels  those  on  the 
•ship  have  not  noticed  it.  But  now  a  low  mutter  of  thunder  is 
heard,  far  away.} 

THE  KING 

[Leaping  to  his  feet]  Hark!    [The  music  and  the  dancing 
cease]    Thunder! 

THE  STEERSMAN 
And  a  yellow  light  on  the  horizon  off  our  larboard  bows. 

THE  KING 
Wind? 

THE  STEERSMAN 

I  fear  so,  Majesty. 

JASPER 

Those  clouds  —  they  rush  and  belly  like  black  sails. 
Their  edges  are  all  torn. 

THE  KING 
[To  the  sailors]    Clear  the  deck!    Up  with  the  anchor! 

THE  SAILORS 

Ay,  ay,  sir!    [Singing  as  they  draw  up  the  anchor] 
Heave  one!    Heave  two! 

Heave  three  and  then  once  more! 
Then  bend  your  back  till  you  hear  it  crack 
And  think  of  the  girls  ashore! 

THORA 
[In  the  water  below]  Come,  dear,  give  me  your  hand. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  65 

LONA 

We  really  must  go  home. 

SWANHILD 

[Suddenly.]  He  smiled!  Oh,Thora!Lona!  He  smiled  at 
that  old  man ! 

THORA 
The  Emperor  of  the  Crabs  is  waiting. 

LONA 
You  are  to  sit  beside  him  at  the  feast. 

SWANHILD 

[Pointing  at  the  ship]  Do  you  know  what  he  is  doing? 
He  has  seen  me  —  he  wants  to  race  with  me!  Oh,  what 
fun  —  what  fun! 

THORA 

Yes,  he  will  race  you  — 

LONA 
But  the  goal  is  the  Black  Reef  —  eh,  Thora? 

THORA 

Tomorrow  there  will  be  splendid  pickings  for  our  gar 
dens!  [Thunder  again.  The  storm  is  imminent.] 

THE  KING 

[On  the  ship.]  Haul  in  the  mainsail!  Quick!  There  is 
only  a  moment  left! 


66  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Clapping  her  hands.]  See  how  they  run!  Hear  them 
shout!  They  cannot  wait  to  begin.  [By  this  time  it  is 
quite  dark.  The  ship  is  illuminated  by  the  red  glare  of  the 
torches,  which  also  flickers  on  the  white  faces  of  the  mermaids 
in  the  sea  below.] 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[At  the  wheel.]  Now  say  a  prayer  and  then  each  man  to 
his  place! 

SWANHILD 

[To  the  ship.]  You  should  give  me  a  start,  because  you're 
so  big  and  I'm  so  little.  But  I  don't  care  —  I'll  beat 
you  yet!  [Ranging  herself  on  a  line  with  the  prow.]  Now 
then,  I'm  ready  —  I'm  ready! 

THORA 

[To  Swanhild.]  Swanhild,  if  you  insist  on  behaving  like 
a  silly  flying  fish,  we  are  going  home. 

LONA 
Good-bye. 

THORA 
Don't  stay  too  late. 

LONA 

And  if  you  get  lost,  any  dolphin  will  show  you  the  way. 

SWANHILD 

[To  the  ship.]  Don't  move!  Oh—  !  Oh—  !  You're 
cheating !  We  haven't  said  "  One-two-three-go ! "  yet !  I'll 
say  it!  I'll  be  perfectly  fair!  Just  as  soon  as  the  storm 
breaks! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  67 

THORA 
[To  Lona.]  Quite  mad! 

LONA 

Come,  dear !  [They  put  their  arms  about  each  other's  necks 
and  disappear  under  the  water} 

SWANHILD 

What  will  the  prize  be,  King  —  O  King?  Will  you  — 
will  you  kiss  me  if  I  win?  Say  "yes"  — 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[On  board,  to  the  King.}  Here  it  comes!  Shall  we  tie  the 
sheet?  [The  wind  is  heard  whistling.  The  torches  on  the 
ship  are  blown  out  quickly.] 

THE  KING 
[Shouting  to  make  himself  heard.}  Yes  —  yes! 

SWANHILD 
[In  delight.}  You  will  —  ?    Remember  then! 

THE  KING 
[Shouting]  Round  with  the  yards  or  we  shall  be  caught! 

SWANHILD 

[Screaming]  One  —  two  —  three  —  go! 

[There  is  a  flash  of  lightning,  a  crash  of  thunder,  then  utter 
darkness.  A  long  cry  has  gone  up  from  the  crew,  which  is 
lest  in  the  howl  of  the  hurricane.  Constant  flashes  of  light- 


68  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ning.  In  them  the  ship  is  seen,  driving  through  the  wind  and 
rain,  rolling  and  rocking  in  the  enormous  waves.  Beside  it, 
down  in  the  water,  swims  the  little  mermaid,  laughing  and 
shrieking  in  a  delirium  of  excitement] 

SWANHILD 

Oh!  Oh!  What  a  wonderful  race!  Thora!  Lona!  I'm 
beating  the  ship !  O  King,  you're  slow  —  come  on  now  — 
faster—!  There  — that's  better!  But  faster  yet! 
[Screaming  with  delight  as  she  dives  through  the  breakers] 
I'm  a  fish  —  I'm  a  fish  —  I'm  a  flying  fish!  Oh,  what  a 
wave!  And  here's  another  —  and  on  we  go  —  forever  and 
ever  and  ever  and  ever  — 

[On  the  ship  the  Steersman  is  struck  by  a  bolt  of  lightning 
and  falls.  The  mermaid 's  voice  has  risen  to  a  yell  which  is 
drowned  in  the  terrific  crash  of  thunder] 

THE  KING 
[In  the  darkness]  Steersman,  where  are  you? 

A  SAILOR 

t 

[As  it  lightens  again.]  The  lightning  struck  him! 

ANOTHER 
He  is  blasted  away  — 

THE  KING 

[Gallantly.]  Courage!  Give  me  the  helm,  man !  Shorten 
the  mainsail,  put  your  trust  in  God,  and  if  it  blow  scorpions 
and  devils,  we  shall  weather  it  yet !  [He  stands  at  the  wheel. 
About  the  decks  the  sailors  work  frenziedly.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  69 

SWANHILD 

[Singing  as  she  lies  on  her  back  and  cuts  through  the 
waves,  the  phosphorus  dripping  off  her  like  millions  of  little 
stars.] 

Little  fishes  of  the  sea 

Give  my  baby  — 

PETER 

[On  board  the  ship,  suddenly  spying  her.]  A-ah!  Look 
there !  Look  there !  We  are  led  by  demons  — 

OTHERS 
Where?    What  is  it? 

SWANHILD 

[Singing  and  laughing.] 

stars  to  bind  his  hair 

And  shine  about  him  everywhere  — 

PETER 

[Pointing.]  There  —  off  our  starboard  bows  —  hark!  It 
laughs!  It  sings!  Do  you  not  see  the  hell-fire  shining?  — 
Wait !  Now  —  now ! 

SWANHILD 

[Singing.]    for  his  neck 

The  treasure  of  the  sunken  wreck  — 

PETER 

[Calling  to  her.]  Witch!  Devil!  I  am  an  old  man  —  take 
me  —  spare  the  King  —  [He  climbs  up  on  the  gunwale  and 
stands,  holding  the  shrouds.] 


70  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  SAILORS 
Peter!    Peter!    What  are  you  doing? 

PETER 

[Crossing  himself.]  Into  Thy  hands,  O  God  —  [He  leaps 
into  the  sea  and  disappears.] 

THE  SAILORS 
Brave  soul!    God  bless  him ! 

OTHERS 
Is  it  satisfied?    Is  it  gone? 

SWANHILD 

[Singing.]    in  this  life 

A  little  mermaid  — 

THE  SAILORS 
No  —  it  is  there !    It  is  singing  still  — 

VOICES 

[On  the  other  side  of  the  ship.]  The  Reef  —  the  Black 
Reef! 

A  SAILOR 

[Heard  above  the  rest.]  We  are  lost! 

[In  the  lightning  the  rocks  loom  up  —  grim  and  terrible. 
As  they  see  them,  a  wail  of  terror  rises  from  the  crew.  They 
all  sink  on  their  knees  and  begin  to  wring  their  hands  and 
pray.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  71 

His  COMPANIONS 

[To  the  King.]  Port  your  helm!  For  God's  sake!  Port 
your  helm! 

THE  KING 
[Making  a  frantic  effort  to  turn  the  wheel.]  Too  late! 

SWANHILD 

[Seen  in  the  lightning,  sitting  triumphantly  on  one  of  the 
rocks.]  I've  won!  I've  won!  So  come  and  kiss  me,  dear! 

[There  is  a  crash,  a  scream  from  the  sailors.  A  flash  of 
lightning.  The  King  is  seen  struggling  with  the  wheel.  The 
waves  break  over  the  deck.  The  mast  snaps  and  falls.  The 
ship  keels  over  on  her  side  and  goes  down.  Darkness.  The 
cries  of  the  drowning  are  heard.  When  it  lightens  again,  the 
King  is  seen,  lying  in  Swanhild's  arms.  He  is  half  uncon 
scious.  Her  lips  are  pressed  to  his  in  a  half -human,  almost 
terrible  embrace.  Darkness.  Thunder.  The  cries  of  the 
drowning  die  away.  When  it  lightens  again,  she  is  still  hold 
ing  him.] 

SWANHILD 
[Deliriously.]  My  darling  —  my  beautiful  — 

THE  KING 

[Seeing  her  for  the  first  time.]  Who  are  you?  Are  you 
death? 

SWANHILD 

No,  I  am  only  a  little  mermaid  who  did  not  understand! 
But  now  I  do  —  so  put  your  arms  around  my  neck  —  shut 


72  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

your  eyes  —  hold  me  close  —  close  —  !  I  love  you  —  I 
am  going  to  save  you  —  and  then,  dear  human  being,  will 
you  give  me  half  your  soul?  [Still  holding  him  she  leaves 
the  rock  and  plunges  into  the  sea.  Thunder.  Darkness. 
When  the  next  flash  comes  she  is  swimming  through  the  waves, 
carrying  his  unconscious  body  in  her  arms.  The  storm  con 
tinues  as  the  curtain  falls.] 


SCENE  III 

The  shore  by  the  convent.  At  extreme  right  a  group  of  cy 
presses,  through  which  can  be  seen  the  deep  blue  sea.  To 
right  centre  a  little  cove  comes  in,  with  a  rocky  shore.  At 
left,  a  hill,  on  the  top  of  which  the  white  marble  columns  of 
the  convent  gleam  in  the  sunlight.  Down  the  hill  winds  an 
ancient  stairway  with  broad,  shallow  steps.  At  centre  is  an 
apple-tree,  pale  and  cloudy  with  blossoms.  Beneath  its 
branches  is  a  small  marble  shrine  and  altar  such  as  the 
ancients  built  to  their  gods.  It  is  now  in  disrepair.  Vines 
grow  about  it.  On  it  is  the  broken  statue  of  a  boy.  This 
image  is  old  and  covered  with  moss  and  lichens. 

Everywhere  is  the  pale  green  of  early  spring.  It  is  morning. 
Flowers  are  growing.  Birds  are  singing. 

As  the  curtain  rises  the  stage  is  empty.  Then  the  face  of  the 
little  mermaid  is  seen  peeping  anxiously  over  a  seaweed- 
covered  rock  on  the  shore  of  the  cove  and  looking  about  in 
search  of  strangers.  Finding  no  one,  she  disappears,  but 
returns  almost  immediately  holding  in  her  arms  the 
drenched  and  unconscious  body  of  the  young  King. 

SWANHILD 

[As  she  lays  him  on  the  ground.]  There!  You  are  safe  — 
I  have  brought  you  to  the  shore!  Wake  up,  dear  King  — 
there  is  no  danger  now !  [He  does  not  move.]  The  storm  is 
gone  —  the  sun  is  shining  brighter  than  ten  thousand  peri 
winkles  —  and  hark !  the  little  fish  are  singing  in  the  trees ! 
[Shaking  his  arm.]  Come,  you  have  slept  too  long!  Sit 

73 


74  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

up  and  talk  to  me!  Quick  —  quick!  Or  I  shall  kiss  both 
eyes  until  they  open!  You  will  not?  Very  well  —  [She 
bends  over  and  kisses  him.]  How  cold  you  are!  As  cold  as 
the  statue  in  my  garden  —  and  as  white !  They  say 
drowned  men  are  cold  and  white  —  [Suddenly.]  Oh,  King, 
you  are  not  —  dead?  No  —  no!  Wake  up  and  speak  to 
me  —  my  dearest  one  — my  darling  — one  word  —  one 
little  word  to  show  you  live!  [She  buries  her  face  in  his 
shoulder.  The  bell  of  the  convent  begins  ringing  — far  away. 
Then  — first  at  a  distance,  but  steadily  growing  nearer  and 
interspersed  with  laughter  and  merry  chatter.] 

THE  YOUNG  GIRLS 

[Singing.]    A  voice  in  the  wind  that  blows 

From  the  land  beyond  the  sea 
Has  sung  to  every  rose 

The  song  it  sings  to  me  — 
[Swanhild  raises  her  head  and  listens.] 

To  the  white  rose  on  my  breastf 

To  the  butterflies  and  bees, 
To  the  little  birds  that  nest 
Among  the  apple-trees  — 

[Swanhild  wipes  the  King's  face  with  her  hair,  kisses  him 
hastily  and  then  hides  behind  a  big,  seaweed-covered  rock 
where  she  can  both  see  and  hear.] 

THE  GIRLS'  VOICES 

"7  bring  you  joy  and  sorrow, 

Rain  and  sunshine,  everything, 
I  shall  have  fled  tomorrow  — 

I  am  Love!    I  am  Spring!" 
[And,  as  they  sing,  the  seven  young  girls  come  down  the  old 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  75 

stairs  —  running,  jumping,  and  laughing,  like  children  re 
leased  from  school.] 

ORIANA 

Medea,  where  is  the  ball? 

MEDEA 
Ariadne  has  it, 

ARIADNE 

[Throwing  it.]  Catch!  [They  toss  about  the  ball,  laughing 
and  talking.] 

A  DARK  YOUNG  GIRL 

[Who  is  picking  flowers.]  Girls!  Girls!  Have  you  for 
gotten  this  is  our  last  day  upon  the  Island?  Our  last 
chance  to  weave  garlands  for  the  chapel  altar?  Think 
what  Sister  Ermyngarde  will  say  if  we  come  back  empty- 
handed! 

ORIANA 

[Playing  ball.]  Don't  throw  so  high! 

ARIADNE 
[Screaming.]  Catch  it !    Catch  it  before  it  goes  in  the  sea ! 

MEDEA 

[Clapping  her  hands.]  Oriana!  Here!  My  turn!  [The 
game  goes  on.] 

THE  DARK  YOUNG  GIRL 

Ariadne!  Stop  that  game!  Medea,  put  away  that  ball! 
Oriana!  Marietta!  Come  here  and  help  me  pick  these 
violets  at  once! 


76  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ORIANA 

[Whispering.]  Pretend   we   don't   hear   her.     [Calling 
aloud.]  My  turn! 

MEDEA 
[Throwing  the  ball.]  There  you  are! 

ARIADNE 
Oh,  missed  it!    Missed  it! 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

[Pausing  in  her  work.]  Isotta!    You  surely  aren't  as  lazy 
as  the  others? 

ISOTTA 

[Singing.]    "I  bring  you  joy  and  sorrow, 

Rain  and  sunshine,  everything  — " 
[Breaking  of.}  Oh,  I've  lost  it!    [She  hunts  for  the  ball.] 

ARIADNE 
There  it  is  —  behind  you! 

MEDEA 
[Picking  it  up.]    "I  shall  have  fled  tomorrow  — " 

ORIANA 

[Finishing  the  song.]    "I  am  Love  — " 

SWANHILD 

[In  a  long,  wailing  sigh.]  Oh! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  77 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

What  is  that?    [All  her  companions  stop  suddenly  and 
listen.    A  pause.    The  sigh  dies  away.} 

MEDEA 
Only  the  wind  in  the  tree-tops!    Who  has  the  ball? 

ORIANA 

Ariadne! 

ARIADNE 

Catch!    [Singing.]    "I  am  Love/    I  am  Spring!"    [The 
game  and  laughter  are  renewed.] 

SWANHILD 

[Sighing  again.]  Oh  —  ! 

THE  DARK  GIRL 
There  it  is  again!    [They  all  stop  and  listen.] 

ISOTTA 
[Whispering.]  Perhaps  it  is  a  fairy! 

ORIANA 

Or  a  tree-nymph! 

MARIETTA 

Or  the  Singing  Flower! 

SWANHILD 
[Sighing  again]  Oh  me! 


78  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

There!  Did  you  hear  that?  You  foolish  girls,  it  is  a 
human  being  in  trouble  and  I  am  going  to  find  him!  [But 
the  girls  cling  to  her.} 

ARMIDA 
Oh  no! 

ARIADNE 
Don't  leave  me! 

ORIANA 

[Beginning  to  cry]  I'm  afraid! 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

Are  you  not  ashamed  to  be  such  cowards?  7  am  not 
afraid  — 

ARIADNE 
Oh  yes,  you  are! 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

Well,  even  if  I  am,  I  can  still  be  brave.  Oriana,  let  me 
go.  Marietta,  take  away  your  hands.  [As  she  steps  for 
ward.]  It  came  from  over  here  —  by  these  rocks  —  [Swan- 
hild  crouches  down  very  low]  There!  You  see!  [Turning  to 
the  others]  It  is  a  shipwrecked  sailor!  [She  kneels  beside  the 
young  King's  body  and  listens  to  his  heart.  The  girls  press 
forward  and  crowd  about,  uttering  little  cries  of  pity  and 
wonder] 

ARIADNE 

Oh  dear! 

MEDEA 

Is  he  dead? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  79 

MARIETTA 
Somebody  call  Sister  Ermyngarde. 

THE  DARK  GIRL 
His  heart  is  beating. 

ARIADNE 
He  lives! 
[Swanhild,  behind  her  rock,  clasps  her  hands  with  joy.] 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

[Interrupting  them  and  rising.]  Ssh!  Come,  help  me 
carry  him  to  the  warm  grass  there  beneath  the  altar. 

ISOTTA 
I'll  take  this  arm. 

MARIETTA 
This  foot  belongs  to  me. 

ARMIDA 
The  other's  mine,  then. 

ARIADNE 
Lady,  what  shall  we  do? 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

Put  your  arms  around  his  waist  —  [They  do  so.]  So! 
Now  gently  —  gently,  girls!  [They  lift  and  carry  him  over 
to  the  altar.  Swanhild  peers  anxiously  after  them.]  There! 


8o  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ISOTTA 

The  ground  is  hard.    I'll  just  rest  his  head  in  my  lap. 

ARIADNE 
No,  in  mine! 

ORIANA 
No,  mine! 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

Ssh,  girls !  Quarreling  over  the  poor  lad  when  he  is  still 
half  dead?  I  blush  for  you !  Put  his  head  in  my  lap  —  so! 
Marietta,  your  handkerchief!  [She  begins  to  wipe  his  face 
very  tenderly.] 

ARMIDA 

How  handsome  he  is! 

ARIADNE 
Medea,  what  color  do  you  think  his  eyes  are? 

MEDEA 
Black! 

ORIANA 

I  think  they're  blue. 

MARIETTA 
How  did  he  find  his  way  to  our  Island? 

ARIADNE 
Why,  he  was  shipwrecked  —  stupid! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  81 

ISOTTA 

He  must  be  one  of  those  fishermen  we  see  sail  by  at  sun 
set. 

ORIANA 

He  does  not  look  like  a  fisherman  to  me!  He  looks  like 
a  — 

MEDEA 
Well? 

ORIANA 
Like  a  fairy  prince!    [A  burst  of  laughter  from  the  others.] 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

[Looking  up]  You  stand  there  gabbling  like  so  many 
storks!  If  you  can  do  nothing  to  help  me  bring  him  back 
to  life,  at  least  don't  deafen  him  with  chatter! 

ISOTTA 

[Dropping  on  her  knees  beside  the  King]  I  shall  rub  his 
hands. 

ARMIDA 
[Doing  the  same]  I  shall  stroke  his  head! 

MARIETTA 

Come,  Medea  —  let  us  chafe  his  feet.  [They  gather  about 
him] 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

[Sharply]  Stand  back!  Don't  crowd  about  so!  Give 
him  aur!  Isotta,  it  does  no  good  to  have  you  hold  his 


82  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

hand,  so  drop  it!    Do  you  hear  me?    Drop  it  this  minute! 
[The  King  moves  and  sighs.] 

MEDEA 
I  heard  him  sigh! 

ORIANA 

His  eyelids  fluttered! 

ARMIDA 

He  moved  his  arm! 

[Swanhild,  in  great  excitement,  is  peering  out  from  behind 
her  rock,  trying  to  see  what  is  going  on.] 

THE  DARK  GIRL 
[With  a  sudden  cry.]  A-ah! 

ISOTTA 

Lady—! 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

[Pointing]  There!  Behind  that  rock!  [They  all  turn 
and  gaze.  But  Swanhild  has  disappeared  in  fright.]  It's 
gone! 

MEDEA 
What  was  it? 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

Oh,  I  don't  know!    I  think  it  was  a  —  a  face  — 

ORIANA 

Holy  Mary! 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

Marietta,  go  see  if  anything  is  there! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  83 

MARIETTA 
[Recoiling.]  What?    I? 

THE  DARK  GIRL 
I  would  go  myself  if  I  did  not  have  this  man  to  nurse. 

MARIETTA 
But  I  do  not  dare!    Let  Armida  — 

THE  DARK  GIRL 
Quick!    I  command  you! 

MARIETTA 

I  [To  Ariadne  and  Medea.]  Then  you  come,  too!     [She 

takes  their  hands  and,  very  timidly,  they  cross  the  stage,  fol 
lowed  by  the  others.] 

THE  DARK  GIRL 
Well? 

MARIETTA 
[Peeping  timidly  about  the  rocks.]  There  is  nothing  here. 

MEDEA 
Except  a  smell  of  seaweed  and  — 

ARIADNE 
[Suddenly.]  What's  that? 


84  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

MARIETTA 

[Looking  out  at  sea.]  Only  the  tail  of  some  big  fish.  [To 
the  Dark  Girl.]  Lady,  you  were  dreaming  — 

ARMIDA 
[Returning.]  Oh,  he  has  moved  again! 

ISOTTA 

He  is  better  — 

ORIANA 

Look!  There  is  color  in  his  cheeks  —  [They  all  gather 
about  him  again.] 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

Very  soon  the  bell  will  ring  for  our  return.  And  where, 
pray,  are  the  garlands  we  have  come  to  gather?  Run  into 
the  woods  and  set  to  work!  [As  they  do  not  budge.]  Well, 
don't  you  hear  me?  Be  off!  Be  off,  I  say! 

ARMIDA 
But  aren't  you  going  to  help  us? 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

No.  It  is  my  duty  to  stay  here  and  take  care  of  this 
unfortunate  sailor-boy.  [The  girls  look  at  each  other.]  What 
are  you  smiling  at? 

ISOTTA 

Nothing.  A  butterfly  tickled  my  ear!  [She  bursts  out 
laughing  and  runs  of  a  little  way.  The  others,  also  laughing, 
join  her.  They  all  put  their  heads  together  and  there  is  much 
whispering.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  85 

THE  DARK  GIRL 
[Warningly.]  I  am  waiting  —  ! 

ISOTTA 

[Bowing  low.]  Lady,  we  obey. 

[The  girls  scatter,  and,  with  sly  gestures  to  each  other,  hide 
behind  the  rocks,  and  trees,  and  shrine,  and  peep  out  with 
dancing  eyes.  The  dark  girl,  after  glancing  about  to  see  if  she 
is  alone,  bends  over  the  King  and  tenderly  kisses  him  on  the 
forehead.  At  this  her  companions  can  contain  themselves  no 
longer;  from  their  hiding-places  they  break  into  gales  of 
laughter.] 

THE  DARK  GIRL 

[Furiously.]  Go!    Go  before  I  — 

[Still  laughing  they  disappear  into  the  woods.  She  looks 
after  them  until  she  is  sure  they  have  really  gone,  then  kisses 
the  King  again,  this  time  on  the  mouth.  His  eyes  open.  He 
comes  to  himself  and  sees  her  face  above  him.] 

THE  KING 
[Bewildered.]  Are  you  an  angel?    Am  I  in  Paradise? 

THE  GIRL 

[As  she  smiles  and  shakes  her  head]  Not  yet,  0  sailor- 
boy. 

THE  KING 

Who  are  you  then? 

THE  GIRL 

A  poor  girl  —  that  is  all. 


86  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 

[Looking  about  him.]  And  was  I  cast  up  by  the  sea  and 
did  you  find  me? 

THE  GIRL 
Yes,  it  was  I. 

THE  KING 
Was  I  —  alone? 

THE  GIRL 

Yes  —  all  alone. 

THE  KING 
[Looking  towards  the  sea.}  It  was  a  dream  then. 

THE  GIRL 
What? 

THE  KING 

I  dreamed  a  mermaid  held  me  in  her  arms  and  kissed 
cold  Death  away. 

THE  GIRL 

Are  you  sure  —  it  was  a  mermaid?    [A  slight  pause.} 

THE  KING 

[Looking  at  her.]  No,  it  was  only  a  dream!     Kiss  me 
again! 

THE  GIRL 

[Rising.]  Please  —  please  — 

THE  KING 
[Taking  her  hand.]  Or  let  me  give  you  back  your  own! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  87 

THE  GIRL 

I  beg  you,  sir  — 

THE  KING 
Just  one! 

THE  GIRL 
You  hurt  my  hand! 

THE  KING 
Forgive  me. 

THE  GIRL 

I  think  your  health  is  —  quite  restored.    [Slight  pause.] 

THE  KING 

What  land  is  this? 

THE  GIRL 

It  is  the  Holy  Island  which  our  convent  rules. 

THE  KING 
Your  convent? 

THE  GIRL 

[Pointing.]  There  —  upon  the  hill. 

THE  KING 
But  you  are  not  a  Sister? 

THE  GIRL 

[Laughing.]  No.  Do  I  seem  so  old?  I  am  just  one  of 
the  girls  the  Sisters  teach.  We  came  down  here  to  weave 
our  garlands  for  the  chapel.  Somehow  the  loveliest  of  all 
the  flowers  grow  in  this  glade  —  I  wonder  why!  Oh,  what 
violets! 


88  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 
Where? 

THE  GIRL 
There  —  by  your  feet.  [He  picks  and  gives  them  to  her.} 

THE  GIRL 

Thank  you.  [Sniffing  them.}  They  are  so  sweet!  But 
we  are  very  wicked  to  be  here  at  all.  We  are  breaking  a 
rule. 

THE  KING 

[Pointing  to  the  shore.}  If  you  had  not  broken  it,  I  might 
be  lying  there  still. 

THE  GIRL 

I  know.  But  Sister  Ermyngarde  has  forbidden  us  this 
glade.  She  says  it  is  a  dangerous  spot.  /  think  it  is  dan 
gerous,  too! 

THE  KING 

What  do  you  fear?  Me?  As  you  see,  I  am  only  a  poor 
sailor-boy  and  besides,  I  would  not  hurt  you  for  the  world ! 

THE  GIRL 
No,  it  is  not  you. 

THE  KING 
What  is  it  then? 

THE  GIRL 
[Whispering,  as  she  points  to  the  statue.}  He! 

THE  KING 
That  broken  image! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  89 

THE  GIRL 
Ssh!    It  is  not  a  broken  image.    It  is  a  god! 

THE  KING 
How  do  you  know? 

THE  GIRL 

[Very  serious.]  Sister  Ermyngarde  told  us.  Listen! 
Long  ago  our  convent  on  the  hill  was  not  a  convent,  but  a 
heathen  temple  to  a  wicked  heathen  goddess.  She  had 
risen  from  the  sea  and  she  ruled  over  the  whole  island. 
And  this  was  the  shrine  of  her  son. 

THE  KING 
[Looking  at  it.]  Her  son? 

THE  GIRL 

Yes,  and  in  the  old  days  the  youths  and  maidens  crowned 
his  statue  there  with  myrtle  and  put  fresh  violets  on  his 
altar  and  knelt  before  it  and  did  him  honor.  And,  in  re 
turn,  he  kept  them  free  and  saved  them  from  great  pain. 

THE  KING 
[Wistfully.]  Great  pain  indeed! 

THE  GIRL 

When  our  dear  Lord  was  born,  Sister  Ermyngarde  told 
us,  the  goddess  died.  But  her  son  still  lives  and  rages  be 
cause  he  is  forgotten  and  the  green  moss  clambers  up  his 
shrine.  So  somewhere  near  he  lurks  among  the  flowers 
and  tries  to  shoot  his  arrows  into  Christian  hearts! 


90  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 

[Smiling.]  Then  let  us  crown  him  and  do  him  honor  while 
there  is  still  time.  For  I  am  sure  that  he  has  seen  us,  and, 
if  we  wait,  his  vengeance  will  be  swift. 

THE  GIRL 

[Doubtful]  Wouldn't  it  be  wrong?  I  don't  know  what 
Sister  Ermyngarde  would  say.  You  know  he  is  a  heathen 
god! 

THE  KING 

Hark!  I  think  I  hear  him  —  there,  behind  the  apple- 
tree  —  stringing  his  bow! 

THE  GIRL 

[In  sudden  terror,  calling  towards  the  apple-tree.]  Oh 
wait  —  wait!  Just  one  moment  before  you  shoot!  [She 
rushes  about  quickly  picking  violets  and  dropping  them  into 
the  loose  folds  of  her  robe.  To  the  King,  as  she  does  so.]  Tear 
off  that  myrtle  growing  about  the  shrine  — 

THE  KING 
[Obeying  her.]  Here? 

THE  GIRL 

Yes  —  now  twist  it  in  a  wreath  —  \Calling  towards  the 
apple-tree.]  We're  working!  We're  working  as  hard  as  we 
can!  A  moment's  mercy  —  a  few  more  violets  —  [Run 
ning  to  the  altar  and  piling  it  high  with  flowers.]  There! 
There!  See  what  I've  brought  you!  [To  the  King,  who  has 
taken  one  of  the  violets  from  the  altar  and  is  kissing  it.]  What 
are  you  doing?  Those  flowers  belong  to  him! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  91 

THE  KING 
Ah,  let  me  keep  it!    He  will  understand  — 

THE  GIRL 

Crown  him !  Crown  him  while  there  is  time !  [The  King 
puts  the  myrtle  on  the  statue's  head.  A  slight  pause.  She 
listens.]  How  still  it  is! 

THE  KING 
Perhaps  he  is  taking  aim ! 

THE  GIRL 

[Seizing  the  King  and  drawing  him  down  beside  her.] 
Quick!  Come  kneel  and  do  him  honor!  [Holding  out  her 
hands.]  O  little  god,  forgive  me  if  I  cannot  call  you  by 
your  name  —  it  is  not  my'  fault  —  it's  Sister  Ermyn- 
garde's  —  I  asked  her  and  she  said  she  had  forgotten  — 

THE  KING 

[Interrupting  her.]  Too  late!  I  feel  his  arrow  in  my 
heart!  [He  takes  her  in  his  arms] 

THE  GIRL 

[Gasping]  He  is  angry  because  I  cannot  call  him  by  his 
name  —  what  is  his  name?  Oh,  tell  me  —  tell  me  quick !  — 
[The  King  kisses  her.] 

THE  KING 
Now  do  you  know?    [Slight  pause.] 


92  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  GIRL 

[Whispering.]  Yes  —  now  I  know  —  [She  buries  her  face 
on  his  breast.  And  just  here,  from  behind  the  trees  where 
they  have  been  hiding,  the  other  girls  steal  out  carrying  great 
boughs  of  apple-blossoms,  garlands,  and  chains  of  -violets. 
With  smiles  and  fingers  at  their  lips,  they  tip-toe  forward. 
When  they  are  very  near  the  kneeling  pair,  there  is  a  burst  of 
laughter,  some  shower  them  with  flowers,  others  quickly  hang 
garlands  about  their  necks,  others  bind  them  with  chains  of 
violets.  The  couple  start  up  in  surprise,  but  they  are  caught 
and  cannot  escape.  The  convent  bell  starts  ringing.} 

THE  GIRLS 

[Singing]    A  voice  in  the  wind  that  blows 

From  the  land  beyond  the  sea 
Has  sung  to  every  rose 

The  song  it  sings  to  me  — 

[As  they  sing,  they  lead  the  King  and  the  Girl  —  still  bound 
with  blossoms  —  slowly  up  the  stairs.  His  arm  is  about 
her  —  her  head  is  on  his  shoulder.} 

THE  GIRLS 

[Singing.]     "I  bring  you  joy  and  sorrow, 

Rain  and  sunshine,  everything, 
I  shall  have  fled  tomorrow  — 

I  am  Love  —  " 

[They  pass  out  as  in  a  dream.  From  far  away  the  song  is 
still  heard.  At  last  the  curtain  falls.} 


SCENE  IV 

Under  the  sea.  The  cave  of  the  Sea  Witch.  At  the  back  is  the 
entrance.  Through  it,  outside,  can  be  seen  the  remains  of 
a  wrecked  vessel,  half-buried  in  the  sand.  The  mast  is 
broken.  At  the  wheel  stands  a  skeleton.  Near  it  grows  a 
polyp-tree,  half -animal,  half -plant.  Its  branches  are  like 
wriggling  arms.  Some  hold  skeletons;  others,  pieces  of 
wrecked  vessels.  Inside  the  cave  the  light  is  strange  and 
dim.  In  a  recess  of  the  wall  is  a  caldron,  resting  upon 
bones.  From  beneath  comes  a  red  and  sullen  glare.  About 
the  caldron  lie  human  skulls. 

As  the  curtain  rises  the  Witch  is  sleeping  on  a  heap  of  gold, 
surrounded  by  her  treasures.  She  is  strange  and  wicked 
and  beautiful.  About  the  cave  crouch  five  hideous  toads, 
also  asleep.  The  Witch  writhes  on  her  heap  of  gold, 
moans  as  if  oppressed  by  a  great  weight,  struggles,  beats 
the  air  with  her  hands  and,  finally,  with  a  scream,  awakes. 

THE  WITCH 

[Muttering  to  herself.}  I  dreamed  of  God!  Devil  save  us, 
what  a  nightmare!  [Seeing  the  toads.}  Up!  Up!  You  lazy 
dirt!  You  wart-covered  vermin!  You  horney-eyed  good- 
for-nothings !  Awake!  It  is  day!  Begin  your  toil!  [In 
terror  they  rise  and  hold  out  their  hands  to  her  as  if  begging 
for  something}  What?  Hungry  again?  Why,  I  fed  you 
last  week!  Are  you  nothing  but  bellies?  Gluttons!  Mon 
sters!  You  will  eat  me  out  of  house  and  home!  [Picking 
up  a  long  bone.}  What's  this?  Ah  yes,  he  was  a  thin 

93 


94  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

man,  but  there's  meat  on  him  still.  [To  the  toads.}  Keep 
back!  [Tossing  the  bone  to  them.}  There!  Now  fight 
for  him.  [They  quarrel  and  struggle  for  the  bone}  Rip! 
Tear!  Claw!  Munch!  [She  laughs}  Go  on!  Go  on, 
my  pretties!  Ah,  who  now  would  believe  you,  that  once 
you  were  five  little  mermaids  who  sought  for  a  human 
soul!  [Changing  her  tone}  Come,  that's  enough.  Too 
much  food  will  make  you  fat.  [Again  attacking  them  with 
her  stick}  Hi!  Stop  your  guzzling!  To  work!  To  work! 
Cecily,  sweep  up  the  floor.  Rosalys,  put  the  kettle  on  to 
boil.  Gertrude's  day  to  scour  the  pots  and  pans.  Elsa, 
my  cherub !  where  is  the  mirror?  And  now,  you  little  Pearl 
of  price,  come  comb  my  hair.  [One  toad  squats  before  the 
Witch  and  holds  up  the  glass.  Another  stands  behind  and 
combs  her  hair.  The  rest  work  busily}  Ah,  glory  of  the 
sea !  Ah,  blinding  loveliness !  [Looking  closer  into  the  glass} 
What's  that?  A  wrinkle?  Can  it  be  that  even  /  grow  old? 
[To  the  load  with  mirror}  Come  closer,  filth!  [Looking  at 
her  image}  Another  here!  Another  there!  And  more  — 
[With  a  yell,  as  she  snatches  the  mirror  and  dashes  it  to  the 
ground.}  Lies!  Lies!  I  still  am  beautiful!  [Suddenly.] 
Who's  that?  [A  great  green  shark  has  slowly  swum  to  the 
entrance  of  the  cave.  His  mouth  is  open;  in  it  he  carries  a 
chest}  Ah,  you,  my  shark!  Come  in!  Come  in!  Now  what 
have  you  brought  me  this  morning?  [The  shark  deposits 
the  chest  at  her  feet}  An  iron-bound  chest!  [She  sniffs.} 
Either  my  nose  deceives  me  or  I  smell  gold.  [She  opens  the 
lid}  Ah,  gold  it  is  —  red  gold  —  like  blood  —  and  fire  — 
[Plunging  her  arms  into  the  contents}  Welcome,  my  little 
darlings!  My  little  sweethearts!  [She  brings  up  great 
handfuls  of  coins  and  lets  them  slip  through  her  fingers} 
You  have  come  to  me  from  far  away.  But  never  mind  — 
I  will  take  care  of  you  —  I  will  cherish  you  —  I  will  love 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  95 

you  like  a  mother  —  [She  kisses  and  croons  to  the  money.] 
So  go  to  sleep  again,  my  little  .dears  —  my  pets  —  sleep  — 
sleep  —  [She  softly  closes  the  lid,  and  then  turns  to  the  shark.] 
You  are  a  good  and  faithful  servant.  You  may  kiss  my 
hand.  [She  holds  out  her  hand.  He  touches  it  with  his  great, 
wide  mouth]  Farewell.  The  Devil  speed  you  on  your 
way.  [The  shark  swims  of.]  Go,  fetch  my  jewels!  Twine 
emeralds  in  my  hair  —  hang  rubies  on  my  breast  —  cover 
me!  Cover  me  with  stones  and  splendors  —  for  I  am  be 
ginning  to  grow  old!  [She  shivers.  The  toads  bring  out  the 
jewel-boxes  and  start  to  adorn  her.  A  long  sea-serpent  swims 
into  the  cave,  carrying  in  its  mouth  a  branch,  with  leaves  of 
silver  and  apples  that  shine  like  fire]  My  eyes  are  dim,  but 
something  glitters  like  a  star  —  [Seeing  the  visitor]  Ah, 
snake  of  my  heart!  You  have  found  them!  They  are 
mine  at  last  —  three  apples  from  the  Tree  of  Happiness ! 
O  loyal  snake,  you  have  served  me  well.  I  give  you  as 
reward  what  kings  have  died  for  —  kiss  my  lips!  [The 
serpent  obeys.]  Begone!  [The  snake  disappears.  The 
Witch  still  holds  the  apples.  They  light  up  her  face  with  a 
strange  radiance.]  Three  apples  from  the  Tree  of  Happi 
ness!  [She  smiles.]  Hark!  Where  is  that  music?  Or  is  it 
an  old  love-song  running  through  my  mind?  Prut!  How 
my  heart  aches!  And  something  strange  is  choking  me 
and  all  the  hopes  and  dreams  and  visions,  dead  so  long, 
rise  up  again  and  knock  upon  the  door  —  [With  a  cry.] 
Here!  Take  the  apples!  [She  gives  the  branch  to  one  of  the 
toads.  Then  with  a  laugh]  Pah !  What  a  fool  I  am !  I  had 
forgotten  that  happiness  is  pain.  [Suddenly]  Is  that  a 
shadow?  Something  comes  —  [A  great  octopus  is  seen 
slowly  approaching.  He  carries  in  his  tentacles  the  corpse  of 
a  man]  You,  my  beloved!  My  slave  of  slaves!  What  do 
you  cradle  there  in  your  soft  arms?  [The  octopus  lays  the 


96  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

corpse  on  the  ground.]  A  man  —  new-drowned  —  and 
young  —  [Suddenly.]  Is  it  the  young  King  of  the  Blue 
Mountains?  Yes?  Devil  be  praised!  [Kneeling  over  the 
corpse.]  O  spirit,  are  you  fled?  Do  you  not  linger  still  in 
this  cold  flesh?  Stay  —  stay  a  little  moment,  before  you 
join  in  hell  the  founder  of  your  dynasty.  Bear  him  this 
message.  Tell  him  the  Sea  Witch  greets  him  —  the  beauti 
ful  young  Witch  who  loved  him  and  who  begged  him  for 
a  soul.  Tell  him  that  without  it  she  lives  on  and  reigns  — 
her  glory  and  her  loveliness  endure.  Time  and  eternity 
may  fade  —  but  not  her  face.  Tell  him  she  took  your  life 
to  prove  she  hates  him  still.  [Bending  over  his  face.]  Why 
do  you  glare  at  me  with  your  dead  eyes  and  grin?  Or  do  I 
fancy  it?  Come,  let  me  look  at  you!  [She  lifts  his  head. 
The  red  glow  falls  upon  it]  Fires  of  damnation !  This  is  not 
the  King !  [Picking  up  her  stick  and  rushing  on  the  octopus.} 
You  fool  —  you  driveller  —  you  sack  of  ink !  Can  you  not 
choose  between  a  king  and  sailor-boy?  Away,  you  spawn ! 
Or  I  shall  tear  your  arms  off  one  by  one  and  feed  your 
carcass  to  my  polyp- tree!  [The  octopus  has  swum  away. 
She,  having  followed  him  to  the  entrance  of  the  cave,  now  re 
turns  and  pushes  the  corpse  aside  with  her  feet. [  Pick  up  this 
carrion.  [Three  toads  lift  the  corpse  and  carry  it  away.} 
Holy  Devil,  what  a  disappointment!  [She  yawns.]  Ah, 
well  — [Calling.]  Cecily!  Elsa!  The  Book  of  Knowledge! 
Let  us  see  what  is  going  to  happen  to-day  —  [The  toads 
bring  her  the  huge  volume  and  squat  submissively  on  the 
ground.  The  Witch  rests  the  Book  on  their  backs  and  begins 
to  turn  the  leaves]  "  Charms  —  Old  and  New  "  —  "  Where 
to  Dig  for  Treasure"  — "How  to  Raise  the  Dead"  — 
[Stopping.]  "The  Future!"  [As  one  of  the  toads  sneezes] 
Keep  still,  you  brat!  [Looking  into  the  Book]  Ah,  Rosalys 
will  break  one  of  my  best  plates!  [Glancing  up]  Careless 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  97 

little  reptile!  I  shall  beat  the  warts  from  off  her  back! 
[Reading.]  Um !  Gertrude  will  spill  the  soup  —  [Glancing 
up.]  Again?  I  told  you  I  should  fry  your  legs!  [Reading.] 
Tut !  Tut !  I  shall  cut  my  finger  with  the  carving-knife  — 
[Turning  the  page.]  Am  I  to  have  no  visitors?  [Her  atten 
tion  struck.]  Ah!  A  little  mermaid  is  on  her  way  here 
now  —  the  youngest  daughter  of  the  Merman  Emperor ! 
She  wants  a  soul.  What?  What?  She  has  seen  the  King 
of  the  Blue  Mountains  —  [Her  voice  dies  away.  She  reads 
on  absorbed.  Meanwhile,  outside  the  cave,  the  arms  of  the 
polyp-tree  have  begun  to  writhe  and  reach  with  a  slow  and 
stealthy  motion.  The  toads  have  glanced  at  each  other  and 
quietly  hopped  to  the  entrance.  The  polyp-tree  grows  more 
and  more  frantic,  lashing  and  lunging,  until  finally  Swanhild 
is  seen,  swimming  down  in  a  great  fright  and  just  avoiding 
the  murderous  tentacles.] 

SWANHILD 

[To  the  tree,  as  she  tries  to  slip  by  into  the  cave.]  Stop  it! 
Stop  it!  Keep  away  —  [The  toads  hold  up  their  hideous 
little  hands  and  stand  across  the  entrance  as  if  entreating  her 
to  come  no  further.] 

SWANHILD 

[To  the  toads.]  Let  me  by!  Quick  — quick!  Or  the  tree 
will  catch  me!  [Her  voice  rises  to  a  cry  of  terror.] 

\ 
THE  WITCH 

[Reading  hurriedly.]  Wait!  I  am  nearly  done  —  let  me 
turn  this  page  —  [She  does  so.  Then,  aflame  with  triumph:] 
Ah!  She  is  mine!  [She  shuts  the  Book  with  a  slam.]  Wel 
come!  Welcome,  your  Royal  Highness!  [Knocking  aside 


98  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

the  toads]  Out  of  the  way,  scum!  [To  Swanhild]  Come 
in,  my  dear!  [She  takes  her  by  the  hand]  Nothing  pleases 
me  more  than  visitors,  particularly  when  they  are  as 
young  and  as  pretty  as  yourself!  [She  leads  her  to  a  stool] 
There!  Sit  down  and  rest  a  bit.  For  I  see  that  you  are 
out  of  breath  after  your  long  swim. 

SWANHILD 
[Trembling]  Oh  dear  —  oh  dear  — 

THE  WITCH 
What  is  it,  sweetheart? 

SWANHILD 
That  tree  — 

THE  WITCH 

Tut !  Don't  be  frightened !  It  cannot  reach  you  here  — 
[Turning  to  the  tree  and  snarling]  Down,  hellion,  down! 
[The  tree  subsides.  The  Witch  turns  soothingly  to  Swanhild] 
You  see,  my  pet?  It  was  only  trying  to  play! 

SWANHILD 

[Still  trembling]  But  there  was  something  —  terrible  in 
one  of  its  arms  —  the  skeleton  of  a  little  mermaid  —  just 
like  me  — 

THE  WITCH 

Ah  yes,  I  remember !  [Shaking  her  head  sympathetically] 
Unfortunate  episode  —  I  assure  you  I  did  my  best  to  pre 
vent  it,  but  the  tree  was  very  hungry  and  she  was  not  — 
er  —  the  best  of  swimmers.  [Swanhild  shudders]  And 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  99 

now,  my  little  seal,  what  is  it  you  want  me  to  do  for  you? 
[^4  s  Swanhild  looks  up  at  her,  startled.]  Oh,  I  am  quite  sure 
that  such  a  beautiful  princess  has  not  swum  all  the  way 
to  the  poor  old  Sea  Witch  for  just  a  bit  of  gossip  —  eh? 
[Smiling  at  her.]  Come,  come!  I  am  as  good-natured  an 
old  body  as  you  could  find  in  the  whole  sea.  So  give  me 
your  hand  and  lift  those  pretty  green  eyes  and  tell  me  all 
about  it. 

SWANHILD 
[Hesitating.]  I  —  I  — 

THE  WITCH 
Yes,  my  dear? 

SWANHILD 

I  thought  perhaps  —  I  mean  I  wonder  if  —  you  see,  I 
want  — 

THE  WITCH 
[Winningly.]  What  does  my  sweetheart  want? 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  please  don't  look  at  me  that  way! 

THE  WITCH 

[Patting  her  hand.]  So  —  so !  Shall  I  try  to  guess?  Is 
it  a  silver  robe  with  pearls  as  big  as  turtle-eggs  all  the  way 
down  the  front? 

SWANHILD 
No  — 

THE  WITCH 

No?    Could  it  be  a  necklace  of  diamonds  that  would 


ioo  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

shine  through  the  water  with  the  light  of  ten  thousand 
starfish? 

SWANHILD 

No  —  no  — 

THE  WITCH 

Prut!  What  a  bad  guesser  I  am!  Then  perhaps  you 
want  to  lose  your  fish's  tail  and  have  instead  two  stumps 
to  walk  upon  like  human  beings.  Eh?  Eh?  Am  I  not 
right?  Have  I  not  hit  the  lobster  on  the  head,  as  the  old 
saying  goes? 

SWANHILD 

How  did  you  know? 

THE  WITCH 

[Slyly.]  Oh,  a  little  fish  told  me!  And  why  do  you  seek 
a  woman's  form?  [Swanhild  is  silent.]  So  that  the  young 
King  of  the  Blue  Mountains  may  fall  in  love  with  you? 

SWANHILD 
Yes  — 

THE  WITCH 

And  for  your  sake  forget  father  and  mother  and  cleave 
to  you  with  his  whole  heart? 

SWANHILD 
Oh  yes  — 

THE  WITCH 

And  let  the  priest  join  your  hands  and  make  you  man 
and  wife? 

SWANHILD 

[Enraptured.]  Yes!   Yes! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  101 

THE  WITCH 
So  that  he  may  give  you  half  his  soul? 

SWANHILD 

[Clasping  her  hands]  And  take  me  with  him  when  he 
goes  to  Paradise! 

THE  WITCH 

[Gathering  Swanhild  in  her  arms.}  My  child,  my  child! 
You  are  the  sweetest  little  mermaid  I  have  ever  seen  and 
do  the  royal  family  credit!  Ah,  youth  —  youth!  The 
perfume  of  the  anemone  —  the  P£arl ia life's  oyster!  How 
touching  —  how  moving  it  is!  Why,  my  heart  is  melting 
like  a  jellyfish  in  the  sunshine!  [To  a  toad.]  Gertrude,  my 
darling  —  a  pocket-handkerchief!  [The  toad  brings  her  one 
and  behind  it  she  laughs  disagreeably] 

SWANHILD 
Will  you  help  me,  then? 

THE  WITCH 

Tut,  tut,  your  Highness!  What  a  question!  Has  age 
a  greater  joy  than  guiding  home  the  love-ships  of  the 
young?  Help  you?  Of  course  I  will! 

SWANHILD 

[In  delight]  Oh  thank  you  —  thank  you !  Now  what 
must  I  do  to  lose  my  tail  and  turn  into  a  woman?  What 
is  the  first  thing?  Oh,  dear,  dear  Sea  Witch,  tell  me, 
please  —  quick  —  quick! 


102  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  WITCH 

Patience!  Give  the  eggs  time  to  hatch,  as  the  old  saw 
has  it!  Remember,  sprat,  'twas  hurry  killed  the  cat-fish! 

SWANHILD 

[Folding  her  hands.]  Look!  See  how  calm  I  am!  I  am 
calm  as  a  clam!  Now  will  you  please  tell  me?  Oh,  if  you 
do  not  tell  me  very  soon,  I  think  that  I  shall  die! 

THE  WITCH 

[Smiling  and  patting  her  on  the  head.]  Come!  Let  us 
have  no  talk  of  dying!  Now  are  you  listening? 

SWANHILD 
[Breathless.]  Oh  yes  —  yes! 

THE  WITCH 

Well,  I  shall  brew  you  a  charm  that  shines  like  a  star 
and  bites  like  the  tooth  of  a  shark  —  a  charm  so  strong  it 
would  turn  devils  to  angels  and  Heaven  to  Hell.  On  the 
night  of  the  full  moon,  you  must  swim  to  the  palace  stairs 
and  swallow  it  down.  And  then,  as  your  green  hair  fades 
to  gold,  your  tail  will  shrink,  and  change  to  what  up  there 
are  called  legs  —  the  loveliest  little  legs  in  all  the  world. 

SWANHILD 
Oh!    Oh! 

THE  WITCH 

And  on  them  you  will  glide  and  float  —  no  dancing-girl 
will  equal  you!  Your  grace  will  be  a  proverb  through  the 
land. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  103 

SWANHILD 

[Clapping  her  hands]  Oh,  splendid !    Wonderful  —  ! 

THE  WITCH 

And  wait!  The  King  will  find  you  and  will  fall  in  love 
with  your  sweet  emerald  eyes  and  lead  you  to  the  church 
and  — 

SWANHILD 

[Interrupting.]  Marry  me  —  ? 

THE  WITCH 
He  is  a  man  —  and  you  are  beautiful. 

SWANHILD 
[Transported]  Do  you  mean  it  —  ? 

THE  WITCH 

[Sighing]  Yes,  this  day  next  week  will  see  you  Queen 
of  the  Blue  Mountains  and  as  for  the  poor  old  Witch  who 
helped  you  —  she  will  be  quite  forgotten.  [She  wipes  her 
eyes] 

SWANHILD 

[Throwing  her  arms  about  the  Witch's  neck]  No  —  !  You 
must  not  say  that!  Why,  I  shall  never  forget  you!  How 
could  I,  when  I  owe  you  everything? 

THE  WITCH 
Well,  we  shall  see  — 


104  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Eagerly  coaxing.]  And  now,  dear  Witch  —  sweet  Witch 
—  the  day  is  speeding  by.  Do  you  not  think  it  better  to 
brew  the  charm  at  once? 

THE  WITCH 

Wait  —  wait!  What  a  hasty  little  mermaid  you  are, 
to  be  sure!  No,  my  pet,  there  is  something  we  have  for 
gotten! 

SWANHILD 

What  is  it?    Tell  me  —  quick! 

THE  WITCH 

[Stroking  her.]  Although  we  are  friends  —  are  we  not?  — 
and  I  love  you  as  if  you  were  my  own  daughter,  still  — 
times  are  hard  and  business  is  business!  So  before  we  go 
on  —  dear!  dear!  what  beautiful  long  hair  you  have!  — 
shall  we  first  just  settle  the  little  matter  of  —  payment? 

SWANHILD 
Payment? 

THE  WITCH 
Payment.    [Slight  pause.] 

SWANHILD 

Oh  yes  —  of  course!  I  will  give  you  all  I  can  —  but  — 
I  —  I'm  afraid  it  isn't  very  much.  [Simply.]  You  see, 
being  young,  I  am  not  extremely  rich  —  and  all  I  have  is 
birthday  presents  and  —  and  things  like  that  —  [Sud 
denly.]  Wait!  I  had  forgotten!  Why,  I  am  rich!  I  have 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  105 

a  chest  of  jewels  the  Emperor  of  the  Crabs  gave  me  yester 
day! 

THE  WITCH 
A  chest  of  jewels! 

SWANHILD 

[Eagerly.]  Yes,  diamonds  and  sapphires  and  rubies  and 
everything/  They  are  such  beauties,  too!  Will  that  be 
enough? 

THE  WITCH 

Far,  far  too  much,  my  dear.  Something  simpler  would 
suit  me. 

SWANHILD 

My  wreath  of  pearls  —  ?  [She  takes  it  of  and  holds  it 
out  to  the  Witch.} 

THE  WITCH 
[Refusing  it.]  No,  still  too  much. 

SWANHILD 

[Hesitating]  I  have  a  golden  comb  and  mirror  that  my 
daddy  — 

THE  WITCH 

[Interrupting]  No!    No! 

SWANHILD 
[Slowly]  Would  you  —  would  you  like  my  doll? 

THE  WITCH 
Your  doll!    Ho  — ho!    [She  laughs] 


io6  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

But  I  have  nothing  more. 

THE  WITCH 

[Good-humor edly.}  So  that  is  where  the  oyster  pinches! 
Well,  well  —  do  not  despair !  As  the  old  saying  goes,  there 
are  still  plums  in  the  pudding!  No,  my  sweetheart,  what 
I  want  is  the  merest  trifle  and  you  can  give  it  to  me  as 
easily  as  you  flick  your  tail.  It  is  nothing  more  nor  less 
than  a  little  promise. 

SWANHILD 

A  promise?    To  do  what?    Tell  me! 

THE  WITCH 
Suppose  our  young  King  does  not  fall  in  love  with  you  — 

SWANHILD 
[Shrinking]  Oh,  please  —  ! 

THE  WITCH 

Come  now,  no  agitation!  You  know  as  well  as  I  do  that 
he  will!  But  just  suppose,  for  the  sake  of  argument,  he 
is  so  blind  as  not  to. 

SWANHILD 

[To  herself]  Oh  —  !    Oh  —  ! 

THE  WITCH 

You  must  promise  that  at  sunrise  on  the  morning  after 
his  marriage  with  another  —  are  you  listening? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  107 

SWANHILD 

Yes. 

THE  WITCH 

[Greed  creeping  into  her  voice.]  At  sunrise  on  the  morning 
after  his  marriage  with  another,  you  will  come  down  to  me, 
\  and  lose  your  human  form,  and  serve  me  as  my  slave  for 
ever.    [Pause.] 

SWANHILD 

[In  horror,  pointing  to  the  toads.]  Be  one  of  them? 

THE  WITCH 

[Again  smooth  and  deceitful]  Come,  it  is  not  so  bad! 
They  are  as  happy  as  young  porpoises  at  play.  And  why 
not?  The  work  is  light  —  I  am  a  gentle  mistress  and  give 
them  kind  words,  plenty  to  eat  and  a  holiday  twice  a  year. 

SWANHILD 

[Looking  at  them]  And  were  they  once  little  mermaids 
like  me  —  hunting  for  a  soul? 

THE  WITCH 

True,  they  were  little  mermaids  that  aspired  —  but  not 
like  you.  No  indeed !  Not  one  of  them  was  half  so  pretty ! 
Perhaps  that  is  why  the  young  men  did  not  fall  in  love  with 
them.  But  you  need  not  worry,  sweetheart  —  you  will 
have  no  trouble. 

SWANHILD 

[Still  looking  at  the  toads.]  So  that  is  why  they  tried  to 
turn  me  away.  Poor  things  —  poor  little  things!  [The 
toads  huddle  together  and  stare  at  her  sadly.] 


io8  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  WITCH 

[Sharply.]  Well?  [Swanhild  starts  and  turns  away.]  Do 
you  promise? 

SWANHILD 
[Bravely.]  Yes.    [The  toads  droop  and  hop  away.] 

THE  WITCH 

Wise  little  mermaid!  You  deserve  your  happiness! 
[Eagerly.]  Is  it  a  bargain  —  eh? 

SWANHILD 
Yes. 

THE  WITCH 

[Gaily.]  Then  let  us  be  businesslike,  my  dear,  and  put 
it  in  writing.  [Clapping  her  hands.]  Cecily!  Gertrude, 
my  chicks!  Bring  pen  and  paper!  [They  obey.]  Just  a 
matter  of  form,  your  Highness,  a  little  matter  of  form! 
Something  to  remind  me  of  those  sweet  green  eyes  when 
they  reflect  God's  glory  in  the  heavens  above.  [Writing.] 
So  —  so!  How  the  pen  squeaks!  I  have  not  used  it  since 
Gertrude  came  —  [To  the  toad.]  —  do  you  remember, 
dear?  What  a  mangey  little  mermaid  you  were !  Ah  well ! 
[Writing.]  —  /  will  go  back  to  the  Sea  Witch  and  lose  my 
woman's  body  and  serve  her  as  her  slave  forever.  [Finishing.] 
There !  Now  make  a  cross,  my  love.  [She  gives  Swanhild 
the  pen.] 

SWANHILD 
[About  to  sign.]  Where?    Here? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  109 

THE  WITCH 

A  moment,  sweetheart!  Do  you  not  think  it  would  look 
prettier  in  —  red? 

SWANHILD 
[Pausing.]  But  the  ink  is  black  — 

THE  WITCH 

[Taking  out  her  knife.]  Prut!  There  is  another  sort  of 
ink  close  by.  Give  me  your  arm !  [She  seizes  and  cuts  it.] 

SWANHILD 
[Startled.]  Oh  —  !    What  have  you  done? 

THE  WITCH 

[Gaily,  as  she  dips  the  pen  in  the  blood  and  gives  it  to  Swan- 
hild.]  There  is  your  red  ink,  child!  Now  sign  —  sign! 
[Swanhild  does  so.  There  is  a  rumble  of  thunder,  very  far 
away,  and  the  light  darkens.]  A-ha !  My  storm  is  on  its  way ! 

SWANHILD 
Here  —  take  the  promise  —  [Shivering.]   How  cold  it  is! 

THE  WITCH 

[Putting  the  paper  into  her  bosom.]  Come  and  warm  your 
self  at  my  fire. 

SWANHILD 
Is  that  a  fire? 


no  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  WITCH 

Yes,  they  are  very  rare  down  here  and  this  one  does  not 
exactly  belong  to  me.  In  fact,  my  dear,  it  is  hell-fire  —  so 
hot,  that  it  has  burnt  a  little  hole  through  the  bottom  of 
the  sea.  I  find  it  very  convenient  for  cooking  my  dinner. 
[As  Swanhild  shrinks  away.}  What?  Are  you  afraid  of  it? 
Never  mind,  my  little  sprat  —  you  shiver  now,  but  soon 
you  will  warm  yourself  in  the  King's  young  arms! 

SWANHILD 

[Trembling]  Give  me  the  charm !  Quick!  Quick!  I  — 
I  do  not  like  it  here  —  I  want  to  go  away  — 

THE  WITCH 

Well,  well  —  I,  for  one,  will  not  stand  in  your  path. 
[To  the  toads.}  Go,  little  friends!  Bring  me  what  I  need! 
[To  Swanhild,  with  a  leer]  They  know  the  contents  of  the 
potion  well  enough.  They  have  all  in  their  turn  sat  just 
where  you  are  sitting  now.  [Sighing]  It  wrings  my  heart 
to  think  they  were  so  plain ! 

SWANHILD 

[As  the  toads  crowd  about  her]  What  are  those  jewels 
that  glitter  in  their  eyes? 

THE  WITCH 

Tears,  my  child.  It  is  all  that  is  left  of  their  womanhood. 
They  weep  with  envy  because  they  see  another  about  to 
win  what  they  themselves  have  lost. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  in 

SWANHILD 

There  is  no  envy  in  their  hearts  —  I  can  feel  that.  Only 
sorrow  —  or  is  it  pity  —  ? 

[The  toads,  as  if  finding  themselves  understood,  put  up 
their  ugly  hands  in  imploring  attitudes.} 


THE  WITCH 

[To  Swanhild}  Take  care,  my  love!  They  may  be  going 
to  bite!  [Harshly,  to  the  toads.]  Cecily!  Gertrude!  Have 
I  not  told  you  what  to  bring  me?  Have  you  not  heard  me 
speak?  What  —  lingering  still?  [Falling  upon  them  with 
a  stick.}  Away,  you  blobs  of  scum!  You  swollen  filthi- 
ness!  Be  off!  Be  off,  before  I  tear  the  black  flesh  from 
your  rotting  bones!  [To  Swanhild.}  All  for  their  good,  my 
dear  —  all  for  their  good.  A  mother's  firmness.  It  hurts 
me  more  than  them  —  [Cowering,  the  toads  have  hopped  of 
to  the  cupboards  and  soon  return  with  various  bottles  and 
boxes.  The  thunder  growls  again,  very  far  away,  and  the 
color  of  the  sea  outside  darkens.  The  cave  is  illuminated 
more  and  more  by  the  fire,  where  the  Witch  now  crouches.} 
Where  are  the  snakes?  [Finding  the  mop}  Ah  yes  —  [Rub 
bing  the  inside  of  the  caldron}  There  is  nothing  like  cleanli 
ness!  [To  the  toads.}  Are  you  ready?  [Taking  a  bottle 
from  one  and  emptying  it  into  the  pot.}  The  blood  of  a  man ! 
[Taking  a  box  from  another  and  tossing  in  the  contents.}  The 
foot  of  a  child!  [Kneeling  and  bending  over  the  caldron, 
with  a  leer  at  Swanhild}  Milk  from  my  own  white  breast ! 
[Rising  and  coming  towards  her.}  Quick,  darling  —  a  single 
scale  from  your  little  tail !  [Returning,  she  drops  it  into  the 
caldron}  So !  [Steam  begins  to  rise,  and  a  strange  murmur  is 
heard}  Hark!  How  it  boils!  It  sounds  like  the  weeping 


ii2  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

of  a  hundred  crocodiles.  [She  picks  up  a  great  thigh 
bone.] 

Once  to  the  left!    Once  to  the  right! 
Then  stir  the  stew  with  all  your  might! 

[Singing  as  she  stirs.] 

Blood  of  man  that  knows  no  rest, 
Black  milk  from  my  withered  breast, 
Foot  of  child  conceived  in  sorrow, 
Mermaid's  joy  that  has  no  morrow! 
Boil  and  bubble  through  the  storm, 
Give  the  fish  a  woman's  form! 

Spells  are  doubling, 

Charms  are  bubbling, 
Hotter,  hotter  blow  the  fires! 

Hell  is  burning, 

She  is  turning 

Into  what  her  heart  desires! 

[She  stops  stirring  and  looks  carefully  into  the  pot.  A  pale 
light  flickers  over  her  face.]  Come!  It  is  shining  already! 
[To  Swanhild.]  One  moment  more  and  it  is  done.  [To  the 
toads.]  Quick!  Jump,  you  imps!  The  apples  from  the 
Tree  of  Happiness!  [They  hastily  bring  her  the  branch.] 
And  now,  my  love,  shut  your  eyes  —  cover  your  face.  For 
as  I  dip  each  apple  in  the  pot  to  cool  the  charm,  the  steam 
will  rise  and  take  on  shapes  it  is  not  good  for  any  little 
mermaiden  to  see. 

SWANHILD 

[Obeying  her.]  I  will  not   look.     Begin,   dear  Witch, 
begin! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  113 

THE  WITCH 

[Under  her  breath.}  You  fool  —  [Taking  the  branch  and 
plucking  from  it  an  apple.} 

O  fruit  of  memories  and  tears! 
Make  the  charm  sweet! 

[She  drops  the  apple  into  the  caldron.  The  steam  rises  in  a 
cloud.  There  is  a  sound  of  weeping  and  of  lamentation  — 
far  away,  as  in  a  dream.} 

SWANHILD 

[Raising  her  head.}  My  sisters  —  they  are  crying  and 
calling  to  me  — 

THE  WITCH 
\Warningly.}  Take  care! 

SWANHILD 

[Turning}  Thora  —  !  Lona  —  !  Where  are  you  —  ? 
[In  the  steam  she  sees  the  vision  of  her  home  under  the  sea, 
exactly  as  it  was  in  Scene  1}  Why,  there  is  our  palace  — 
and  the  blue  trees  —  my  little  garden  and  my  statue  — 
[Like  a  child.}  Oh,  I  want  to  go  home!  I  want  to  go 
home  — 

THE  WITCH 

Think  of  the  home  that  waits  for  you  beyond  the  stars! 
Think  of  the  joys  of  Paradise! 

SWANHILD 

Paradise!  [As  the  vision  fades.]  Thora  —  Lona  — 
good-bye!  Good-bye  —  dear  little  garden  —  good-bye  — 


ii4  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

good-bye  —  [//  has  gone.  The  steam  clears  away  and  the 
music  ends} 

THE  WITCH 
[Plucking  the  second  apple] 

O  fruit  of  anguish  and  of  vain  regrets! 
Make  the  charm  sharp! 

[She  drops  the  apple  into  the  caldron.  Again  the  steam 
rises.  And  in  the  cloud  five  little  mermaids  are  seen  holding 
out  their  arms  towards  Swanhild  and  wailing  pitifully] 

THE  FIRST  LITTLE  MERMAID 
There  is  no  hope,  Swanhild  — 

THE  SECOND 
We,  too,  have  sought  for  souls  — 

THE  THIRD 
What  lies  before  you  is  far  worse  than  death  — 

THE  FOURTH 
,    Go!    We  beseech  you!    It  is  not  yet  too  late  — 

THE  FIFTH 
We  know !    So  take  our  .warning  —  swim  away  — 

SWANHILD 
Who  are  they? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  115 

THE  WITCH 

[Pointing  to  the  five  toads.]  Fools  who  have  tried  and 
failed. 

SWANHILD 

[In  terror.]  But  7  may  fail  — 

THE  WITCH 

Hark!  [The  sound  of  harps  and  trumpets,  infinitely  dis 
tant,  is  heard  and  singing  voices,  exultant  and  sweet.]  The 
souls  that  sing  forever  in  the  choirs  of  God ! 

SWANHILD 

Angels  —  ?  [In  rapture.]  Angels  —  ?  [To  the  mermaids 
in  the  vision.]  Oh,  do  you  hear?  I  cannot  give  them  up! 
I  must  go  on!  [The  little  mermaids  cover  their  faces  with 
their  hands  and  vanish.  The  music  and  the  voices  die  away. 
The  steam  fades.] 

THE  WITCH 
[Plucking  the  third  apple.] 

0  fruit  of  tenderness  and  love  that  smiles! 
Make  the  charm  bright! 

[She  casts  the  apple  in  the  caldron.    For  the  third  time  the 
magic  vapor  rises.    In  it  hangs  a  single  face.] 

SWANHILD 

[Whispering.]  How  beautiful  she  is!  Her  eyes  are 
speaking  to  me  —  [To  the  Witch.]  Is  she  some  memory  that 
I  have  forgotten? 


u6  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  WITCH 
Can  you  not  guess? 

SWANHILD 

[Softly.]  Is  she  —  is  she  my  mother?  [The  Witch  nods. 
Swanhild  turns  longingly  to  the  vision}  Oh,  dear,  dear 
mother  whom  I  never  knew!  I  have  loved  you  and  missed 
you  all  my  life.  And  now  when  I  need  you  most,  you  have 
come  to  help  me.  Oh,  mother  dear,  I  am  all  alone  and  I 
feel  so  little  and  so  frightened !  Shall  I  swim  home  and  stop 
my  dreams  and  live  a  mermaid  till  I  melt  to  foam?  Or  if  I 
hope  and  dare  —  oh,  tell  me !  —  shall  I  find  at  the  end  a 
soul?  [The  face  in  the  vision  slowly  shakes  its  head  and  fades 
away.] 

SWANHILD 

[With  a  cry  of  fear.]  Ah!  She  has  spoken  —  she  has 
shown  me  the  way! 

THE  WITCH 
Where? 

SWANHILD 
Back  to  the  sea! 

THE  WITCH 

[To  the  toads]  Quick!  Quick!  The  woman's  heart! 
[As  she  tosses  it  into  the  caldron] 

O  shrine  of  passion  and  eternal  pain! 
Make  the  charm  strong! 

[The  steam  rises] 

SWANHILD 

[Swimming  of]  Good-bye  —  [She  is  at  the  entrance  to  the 
cave] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  117 

THE  WITCH 

Wait,  little  mermaid!  One  look  before  you  go!  \Swan- 
hild  turns.  Amid  the  magic  vapor  stands  the  young  King  of 
the  Blue  Mountains,  in  all  the  radiance  of  his  youth  and 
beauty.} 

SWANHILD 

[In  sudden  terror.]  Not  you?  You  have  not  come  to 
tempt  me?  O  dear  King,  remember  that  I  saved  your  life! 
Have  pity  on  me  now  and  let  me  go!  [Wavering.]  I  am  so 
weak  —  I  love  you  —  oh,  can  it  be  my  mother  did  not 
know?  [The  sound  of  men's  voices  softly  singing  the  old 
love-song  is  heard.}  She  never  saw  you!  She  never  felt 
the  glory  shining  from  your  eyes  —  the  power  that  draws 
me  to  your  dear,  dear  arms  —  the  welcome  I  shall  find 
upon  your  heart!  See,  darling  —  all  my  doubts  are  gone! 
I  love!  I  trust!  God  calls!  My  soul  awaits!  And  you, 
beloved,  are  my  path  to  Paradise!  [The  vision  fades} 

THE  WITCH 

[Filling  a  small  flask  with  the  contents  of  the  caldron.} 
Good!  That  is  the  tune  I  like  to  hear! 

SWANHILD 
[Wildly.]  The  charm  — 

THE  WITCH 

Look!  [Holding  it  up]  See  how  it  twinkles!  [Giving  it 
to  her]  Guard  it  well! 

SWANHILD 

[Holding  it  close  to  her  heart]  The  night  of  the  full 
moon  — 


n8  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  WITCH 
On  the  palace  stairs! 

SWANHILD 

[Laughing  and  trembling.]  O  Lord  of  Love!  I  come!  I 
come !  [With  one  stroke  0}  her  tail  she  is  out  of  the  cave  and 
gone] 

THE  WITCH 

[With  a  scream  of  laughter,  as  she  beats  the  toads  with  her 
stick.}  Laugh!  Dance!  Rejoice!  For  a  little  comrade  has 
started  on  her  way !  [Singing.} 

Spells  are  doubling 
Charms  are  bubbling 

Hotter,  hotter  grow  the  fires! 
Hell  is  burning  — 

[And,  as  she  sings,  the  curtain  falls.] 


SCENE  V 

The  palace  of  the  King  of  the  Blue  Mountains.  An  open 
terrace  overlooking  the  sea.  To  left,  the  entrance  to  the 
palace.  To  right,  a  few  broad  steps  leading  to  the  water. 
Along  the  back  are  tall  marble  columns.  Through  them 
can  be  seen  the  blue  of  the  sky  and  sea.  Near  the  steps  is  a 
marble  chair,  facing  the  ocean.  It  is  late  evening.  As  the 
scene  progresses,  night  falls. 

At  the  rise  of  the  curtain  the  stage  is  empty.  From  within 
the  palace  comes  the  sound  of  music,  mingled  with  occa 
sional  laughter  and  young  voices.  There  is  a  moment's 
pause.  The  laughter  and  the  voices  swell.  The  doors  to 
the  palace  are  flung  open  and  the  King  strides  out  as  if 
escaping  from  the  revelry  within.  Behind  him  follow  two 
of  his  young  comrades,  entreating  him  to  stay.  They  are 
flushed  and  laughing.  Their  heads  are  crowned  with  roses1 
their  long  robes  trail  behind  them. 

THE  KING 
[Entering.]  Away!    Away  where  I  can  breathe! 

ROLAND 

[Entering.]  Why  do  you  leave  us,  sire,  before  the  feast 
is  done? 

THE  KING 

I  am  not  hungry,  Roland.  [The  other  young  men  enter 
from  the  palace.  One  or  two  of  them  carry  goblets  in  their 
hands] 

119 


120  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

JASPER 
[Entering.]  Where  are  you,  sire? 

VALENTINE 

Master!  Comrade!  Tell  us  what  is  wrong?  [They  have 
gathered  about  him  affectionately.] 

THE  KING 

Wrong?  Nothing!  Only  I  am  tired  of  lights  and 
laughter  —  I  want  to  feel  the  night-wind  on  my  face  and 
hear  the  splashing  of  the  little  waves  and  lift  my  eyes  to 
meet  the  benediction  of  the  stars. 

BERTRAM 
But,  sire,  that  is  not  all. 

JASPER 
Something  is  troubling  you. 

VALENTINE 
Why,  it  is  a  fortnight  since  you  have  gone  hunting! 

JASPER 
Hour  after  hour  you  sit  alone  here,  gazing  at  the  sea. 

SEBASTIAN 
We  feel  that  somehow  we  have  lost  you. 

BERTRAM 
Sire,  you  are  changed  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  121 

THE  KING 

[Smiling.]  All  this  because  I  leave  the  banquet  for  a 
breath  of  air ! 

BERTRAM 
Oh,  sire!    As  if  it  were  tonight  alone! 

ROLAND 
I  saw  it  first  when  you  came  home  from  that  island  — 

BERTRAM 
After  the  shipwreck,  when  we  thought  you  lost. 

THE  KING 

Can  a  man  be  quite  the  same  when  Death  has  lifted  up 
his  chin  and  looked  into  his  eyes,  and  then  smiled  and 
passed  on? 

ROLAND 

[Simply.]  We,  too,  faced  Death  that  night. 

RlNALDO 

Do  you  not  trust  us  any  more? 

SEBASTIAN 

You  have  shared  your  joys  with  all  of  us  so  long  —  ah, 
comrade,  be  as  generous  with  your  grief! 

THE  KING 

My  own  dear  friends !  If  it  were  some  wound  your  love 
could  heal  —  some  enemy  your  loyal  swords  could  slay  — 


122  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  YOUNG  MEN 
[Eagerly.]  Yes!    Yes! 

THE  KING 

I  should  have  told  you  long  ago.  But  ah!  it  is  no 
wound  —  no  enemy.  It  is  a  dream  that  weighs  upon  my 
heart. 

THE  YOUNG  MEN 

[Gathering  about  his  chair.]  A  dream?  What  does  he  say? 
A  dream? 

THE  KING 

Listen!  [They  are  silent.]  I  dreamed  I  walked  along  an 
empty  road.  There  was  no  sun  —  the  sky  was  grey  —  and 
all  about  me  rolled  the  grey  rocks,  like  sullen  waves  that 
had  been  turned  to  stone.  And  there  were  a  few  wild, 
naked  trees,  which  bent  and  whistled  in  the  wind,  and  the 
dead  leaves  danced  like  witches,  round  and  round. 


VALENTINE 
Were  you  alone,  sire? 

THE  KING 

Alone  —  and  tired !  For  I  dreamed  I  had  been  walking 
years  and  years  and  still  my  resting-place  was  far  away. 
And  then  —  I  know  not  why  —  I  raised  my  eyes  and  there 
against  the  storm  cloud  sailed  a  snow-white  bird.  And  as 
I  looked,  it  flew  down  to  the  dreary  world  and  lit  upon  my 
shoulder  and  began  to  sing! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  123 

ROLAND 
Was  it  God's  dove? 

THE  KING 
No,  little  Roland.    Something  sweeter  still  — 

ROLAND 
Oh,  sire! 

THE  KING 

For  as  it  sang  to  me,  the  clouds  rolled  back,  the  sun 
broke  out,  the  sky  was  blue!  The  wind  that  was  so  cold 
grew  soft  and  warm  and  filled  with  the  fragrance  of  an 
enchanted  spring.  Those  naked  trees  were  misty  with 
strange  blossoms.  At  every  step  new  flowers  sprang  up 
beneath  my  feet.  And  the  bird  sang  on  and  on  —  sweeter 
and  wilder  and  louder  —  !  And  my  loneliness  and  weari 
ness  were  gone,  and  my  heart  beat  with  a  furious  joy,  and 
I  seized  that  miracle  with  my  two  hands  and  pressed  my 
face  against  its  warm  young  breast!  But  oh!  at  my  first 
kiss  it  flew  away!  It  spread  its  wings  and  soared  in  circles 
higher  —  higher  —  till  bird  and  song  were  lost  amid  the 
skies.  And  when  at  last  I  looked  once  more  around  me 
there  were  no  flowers  —  only  grey  rocks  and  the  bare  trees 
creaking  in  the  wind,  the  empty  road  —  and  at  my  feet 
one  snow-white  feather,  like  a  little  memory.  [Pause.] 
That  was  my  dream.  And  I  awoke  from  it  with  bitter 
tears  still  wet  upon  my  face  and  a  bitter,  bitter  longing 
in  my  heart. 

VALENTINE 
But,  sire,  —  it  was  only  a  dream! 


i24  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

BERTRAM 
Why  mourn  for  dreams  when  there  are  wine  and  roses? 

JASPER 

Forget  the  white  bird  and  that  empty  road!  Be  your 
old  self  again! 

THE  KING 

That  is  beyond  me.  [Rousing  himself.]  And  yet  for 
your  sakes  I  will  do  my  best.  Come !  Back  to  the  feasting ! 
We  have  stayed  too  long  and  —  [As  he  speaks  the  doors  are 
opened  and  Lord  Otho  appears.  He  is  an  aged  white-haired 
man,  with  a  wise  and  beautiful  face.] 

THE  KING 
Who's  there? 

LORD  OTHO 
It  is  I  —  your  Chancellor. 

THE  KING 

[To  his  friends.]  Go!  Take  my  place!  Command  new 
spices  to  be  burnt,  let  slaves  shower  roses  from  on  high! 
Call  for  fresh  garlands  —  wilder  music  —  stronger  wine! 
The  moon  has  not  yet  risen  and  the  night  is  young!  [He 
closes  the  doors.  His  laughter  ceases.  He  stands  for  a  mo 
ment  in  an  attitude  of  despair.] 

LORD  OTHO 
Are  you  not  well,  sire? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  125 

THE  KING 

[Recovering  himself  and  smiling.]  Well  enough,  my  lord! 
Unless  it  be  a  sickness  of  the  mind  to  sit  alone  here  in  my 
chair  and  wish  for  all  the  things  that  cannot  be. 

LORD  OTHO 

What  things,  sire? 

THE  KING 

[Smiling  as  he  points  to  the  sea.}  To  turn  those  waters 
into  purple  wine  —  to  dredge  the  heavens  with  a  net  of 
stars  —  who  knows?  Perhaps  to  be  a  sailor-boy  and  not 
the  King.  Dreams,  my  lord  —  but  lovely  dreams!  What 
brings  you  here? 

LORD  OTHO 

Look,  sire!  do  you  see  those  little  lights  that  dance 
within  the  bay? 

THE  KING 
The  ships? 

LORD  OTHO 

The  galleons  that  bear  your  embassy  to  the  young 
Queen  of  the  South. 

THE  KING 

But  I  gave  commands  they  should  not  sail  till  dawn ! 

LORD  OTHO 

Tonight  is  the  full  moon.  The  tide  is  high.  There  is  a 
fresh  wind  from  the  West.  Let  them  weigh  anchor  and 
depart  straightway! 

THE  KING 

No  —  no  — 


126  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

LORD  OTHO 

For  twelve  whole  days  you  have  kept  them  lingering  in 
port.  The  sailors  grow  out  of  hand,  the  embassy  itself  is 
restless,  on  each  ship  the  cry  is  heard,  "Why  do  we  wait?" 
And  no  one,  sire,  can  answer  —  save  yourself. 

THE  KING 

If  they  had  sailed  last  year  —  six  months  —  one  month 
ago,  with  what  joy  should  I  have  sped  them  on  their  way! 

LORD  OTHO 

A  month  ago?  But  even  then  the  Queen  was  in  her 
convent,  learning  royal  virtues.  Remember,  sire,  how  short 
the  time,  since  she  has  come  back  to  her  kingdom  and  taken 
up  the  reins  of  government ! 

THE  KING 
Is  it  then  short? 

LORD  OTHO 

No  longer  since  than  your  disastrous  shipwreck  and 
God-given,  miraculous  escape. 

THE  KING 

To  me,  each  day  has  been  a  thousand  years  —  each 
night,  eternity! 

LORD  OTHO 

Can  you  not  sleep,  sire? 

THE  KING 

I  lie  awake  and  listen  for  the  first  time  to  the  world. 
Hark !  Do  you  hear  the  lapping  of  the  little  waves  against 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  127 

the  stairs?  They  are  murmuring,  "  We  know!  We  under 
stand! "  And  the  warm,  salt  wind  upon  your  face,  ruffling 
your  hair?  It  whispers,  "Life  is  short.  Love  is  sweet. 
Alas!"  See  that  planet  hanging  in  the  sky!  Its  splendor 
seizes  me  like  some  great  silent  song  — "  Courage,  O  lonely 
heart.  Be  strong.  And  all  is  well. " 

LORD  OTHO 
That  star  shines  over  Southland. 

THE  KING 
This  marriage  —  must  it  be? 

LORD  OTHO 

Ah,  sire,  you  know  it  was  your  father's  dying  wish. 
With  his  last  breath  he  begged  you,  when  the  time  was 
ripe,  to  choose  the  daughter  of  his  ancient  enemy  —  so 
that  the  old  wars  might  cease  forever  and  the  land  have 
rest. 

THE  KING 

[In  a  sudden  burst  of  grief.]  O  God,  why  was  I  born  to 
sit  upon  a  throne? 

LORD  OTHO 
Sire! 

THE  KING 

I  could  have  been  so  happy  as  a  fisherman!  I  could 
have  worked  so  hard  and  laughed  and  sung,  for  in  my  mind 
would  be  the  memory  of  sweet  things  past,  —  yes,  and 
the  knowledge  of  sweeter  things  to  come. 


128  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

LORD  OTHO 
Sire,  I  cannot  bear  to  have  you  suffer! 

THE  KING 
[Rising.]  My  Lord,  let  the  ambassadors  set  sail. 

LORD  OTHO 

[In  triumph  and  delight.]  There  speaks  my  King!  I 
hasten,  sire,  to  tell  them  your  command!  [He  goes  into  the 
palace.  As  he  disappears,  there  is  a  shout  from  within. 
Valentine  and  Bertram  come  to  the  doors.] 

VALENTINE 
Sire,  are  you  there? 

BERTRAM 
Comrade,  you  are  not  dreaming  still? 

THE  KING 

[Shaking  of  his  mood]  No !  What  are  dreams  when  the 
dancing-girls  leap  high!  Quick  —  quick,  my  friends!  To 
the  black  eyes  and  the  golden  breasts  that  gleam  behind 
their  veils!  [He  throws  both  arms  over  their  shoulders  and 
gaily  leads  the  way  into  the  palace.  The  terrace  is  empty. 
Slowly  the  great  moon  rises  from  the  sea.  Over  the  side  of  the 
steps  leading  to  the  water  appears  the  little  face  of  Swanhild.] 

SWANHILD 

The  moon  is  full.  Are  these  the  palace  stairs?  [She 
glances  about  her  fearfully  —  then  raises  herself  higher,  until 
at  last  she  is  sitting  on  the  edge  of  the  steps,  her  tail  submerged 
in  the  water  below]  I  have  the  charm.  How  it  gleams  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  129 

like  a  wicked  eye  that  cannot  sleep.  It  shines  through  my 
fingers  —  it  turns  my  flesh  all  blue.  Perhaps  it  is  a  poison 
and  will  kill  me  straight  —  perhaps  it  will  change  me  to  a 
snake  or  devil-fish  —  [Shivering.]  Oh,  what  a  coward  I  am! 
Women  are  brave  and  I  shall  be  a  woman  soon.  But  even 
then  perhaps  he  will  not  love  me  —  he  is  so  great  and  high 
and  I  am  only  a  little  mermaid  —  perhaps  he  will  see  I  have 
no  soul  and  laugh  at  me !  Oh !  Oh !  And  it  will  be  too  late 
to  repent  —  the  Witch  will  rise  and  drag  me  to  her  cave 
and  there  forever  I  shall  —  [Suddenly.]  Hark!  [She  turns.] 
There  is  the  great  bell  tolling  down  below  —  [Suddenly] 
They  have  missed  me  —  they  are  hunting  for  me  now ! 
[Calling.]  Daddy!  I  hear  you  —  I  am  coming  —  wait  for 
me  —  [She  is  just  slipping  back  into  the  water  when  there  is 
a  burst  of  applause  from  within  the  palace,  the  doors  are 
opened  and  the  King  reappears,  rose-crowned,  standing  in 
the  warm  light,  looking  back  at  the  feasters,  laughing,  clap 
ping  his  hands.  She  sees  him  and  stops.] 

THE  KING 

[Applauding,  his  voice  is  heard  over  the  tumult.]  Good! 
Good!  You  dance  divinely,  girl  —  wear  this  for  me!  [He 
has  torn  the  rose-garland  from  his  head  and  now  tosses  it  to 
someone  within.  There  are  renewed  cheers  and  applause] 

THE  VOICES 
Your  health!    The  King's  health!    Drink!    Drink! 

SWANHILD 

[Holding  out  her  arms  towards  the  sea]  Daddy,  forgive 
me.  [Turning  and  raising  the  flask]  O  King,  I  pledge 
you,  too!  [She  drinks] 


130  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

A  MAN'S  VOICE 
[Singing  within  the  palace.} 

High  as  the  stars  above, 
Deep  as  the  sea  below, 
Wide  as  the  world  is  love  — 
I  love  you  so! 

[Pain  has  seized  the  little  mermaid.  The  agony  of  her  new 
birth  shakes  and  racks  her.  Her  face  is  twisted.  Her  eyes  are 
closed.  She  is  trying  to  rise.  The  King  stands  at  the  door 
way,  listening  to  the  singer  within.  The  voice  continues.] 

The  long  day  is  past, 
My  arms  ache  with  desire  — 

0  dearest,  quench  at  last 
A  soul  on  fire  — 

SWANHILD 

[With  a  cry  of  triumph.]  Ah  —  !  [She  stands  and  sways. 
She  is  quite  naked  and  has  the  legs  and  feet  of  a  woman.  Her 
long  hair  covers  her  like  a  mantle.] 

THE  KING 

[Turning  at  her  cry  and  seeing  her]  White  bird,  is  it  you? 
[She  reels  and  stretches  out  her  hands  to  him.]  Not  you  —  ? 
[He  rushes  forward  just  in  time  to  catch  her  as  she  falls,  and, 
holding  her  high  in  his  arms  as  he  would  a  child,  looks  eagerly 
into  her  moonlit  face.  Then  he  shakes  his  head]  No  —  I 
was  mad  —  and  yet  —  and  yet  —  [She  sighs  and  opens  her 
eyes  and  smiles  up  at  him] 

SWANHILD 
Lord! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  131 

THE  KING 

[Gently,  still  holding  her  in  his  arms.]  Who  are  you? 
How  came  you  here? 

SWANHILD 

[Adoringly]  My  own  dear  lord! 

THE  KING 

[Putting  her  on  her  feet]  Were  you  shipwrecked?  Were 
you  washed  here  by  the  waves? 

SWANHILD 
[Trembling  and  clinging  to  him]  Oh!    Oh!    I  am  afraid! 

THE  KING 

[Comforting  her]  I  know.  I,  too,  have  lain  half-dead 
upon  an  unknown  shore.  But  you  are  safe  now  —  safe! 
I  hold  you  close  —  the  danger  is  all  gone. 

SWANHILD 

[Burying  her  face  on  his  shoulder]  My  dearest,  dearest 
lord  — 

THE  KING 
[Stroking  her  hair]  What  is  your  name?    [A  little  pause] 

SWANHILD 
Swanhild. 

THE  KING 

From  what  land  do  you  come,  Swanhild? 


132  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

I  —  I  have  forgotten,  lord. 

THE  KING 
But  whither  are  you  bound? 

SWANHILD 
[Smiling.]  To  Paradise!    [He  laughs  softly.] 

THE  KING  ^ 

Your  wits  have  left  you.     Have  you  no  father,  no 
mother,  no  friends,  no  kinsmen? 

SWANHILD 
[Simply.]  There  —  in  the  sea. 

THE  KING 
[Very  tenderly.]  Are  they  all  lost? 

SWANHILD 

Yes  —  all.    [Her  voice  shaking.]  I  am  alone.    [He  bends 
over  and  gently  kisses  her  forehead.] 

THE  KING 
Poor  shivering  child! 

SWANHILD 

[Gasping.]  I  cannot  see!    There  is  something  hot  and 
wet  in  both  my  eyes  —  oh,  lord,  am  I  blind? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  133 

THE  KING 

[Smiling.]  Blind?  You  are  weeping  —  that  is  all. 
Here  —  let  me  wipe  away  your  tears.  [He  does  so.]  But 
still  they  come  and  come! 

SWANHILD 

[Sobbing.]  I  —  I  cannot  help  it,  lord  — 

THE  KING 

[Soothing  and  caressing  her.]  There,  there,  little  found 
ling!  I  will  take  care  of  you.  You  shall  be  my  page  and 
wear  the  costliest  silks  and  muslins  and  sleep  on  a  velvet 
cushion  at  my  chamber  door.  Do  not  fear  —  I  will  keep 
you  with  me  always.  For  you  remind  me  a  little  of  some 
one  —  of  someone  whom  I  loved  and  lost. 

SWANHILD 
Dear  lord!    [A  little  pause.] 

THE  KING 

[Lifting  his  head.]  There  is  a  cold  wind  rising  from  the 
sea.  [Slipping  of  his  robe.]  Here  —  put  this  about  you  — 
[He  throws  it  over  her  shoulders.  It  envelopes  her  completely.] 
Now  let  me  lead  you  in  and  give  you  food  and  rest.  [He 
moves  towards  the  palace,  but  she  does  not  follow.  She  stands 
looking  out  over  the  sea.]  Why  do  you  linger? 

SWANHILD 

Lord,  I  am  saying  good-bye  to  those  I  leave  behind. 
[He  comes  up  behind  her  and  puts  his  arm  about  her.] 


i34  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 

[Wistfully.]  I  think,  child,  they  are  happier  than  we  — 
though  they  sleep  tonight  on  coral  beds,  beneath  the  waves. 
[And,  as  he  speaks,  from  far  away,  strange  and  sad,  come 
the  voices  of  her  sisters.] 

THORA  AND  LONA 

[Singing.]    Mermaid,  mermaid,  come  with  me, 
Night  has  fallen  —  you  are  free  — 
All  the  glories  of  the  sea 
Are  yours,  if  you  will  follow  me  — 

THE  KING 
Hark!    There  are  mermaids  singing  in  the  West! 

SWANHILD 
No,  lord.    The  wind  is  rising  —  nothing  more. 

THE  KING 
[Suddenly.]  But  look!    What  is  that? 

SWANHILD 
Where? 

THE  KING 

[Pointing  towards  the  sea]  There!  White  arms  —  and 
the  wringing  of  hands  — 

SWANHILD 

Only  the  foam  in  the  moonlight.  See  —  it  is  gone.  [The 
mermaids'  song  has  ended.  From  within  the  palace  the 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  135 

music  is  heard  again.    The  King  turns  and  looks  down  at 
Swanhild.] 

THE  KING 
Little  lost  mariner! 

SWANHILD 
Lord,  I  am  ready. 

THE  KING 

[Putting  his  arm  about  her.}  Come.    [He  leads  her  towards 
the  palace] 

THE  MAN'S  VOICE 
[Singing  within.] 

High  as  the  stars  above, 
Deep  as  the  sea  below, 
Wide  as  the  world  is  love  — 

[And,  as  he  sings,  the  curtain  falls.] 


SCENE  VI 

The  same  scene.  It  is  late  afternoon.  Towards  right  —  near 
steps  —  is  a  low  couch.  At  its  head  stands  a  tall  brazier 
from  which  the  smoke  of  incense  slowly  rises.  There  are 
mats  and  cushions  spread  about  the  stage.  At  centre  is  a 
reading-desk  on  which  lies  open  a  great  book. 

The  King  is  lying  on  the  couch.  At  his  feet  sits  Swanhild  as 
his  page,  dressed  like  a  boy.  About  them,  stretched  out 
lazily  on  the  cushions  or  sitting  on  the  steps,  are  the  King's 
companions.  Rinaldo  and  Sebastian  are  lying  at  full 
length,  their  chins  on  their  hands,  a  chess-board  between 
them.  They  play  slowly.  At  the  corner  of  the  steps  sits 
Bertram,  with  a  long  cord  in  his  hand.  He  is  fishing. 
Roland  sits  on  a  cushion,  leaning  his  back  against  the 
reading-desk.  His  head  has  fallen.  He  is  asleep.  Valen 
tine  holds  a  long,  quaint,  stringed  instrument  in  his  idle 
hands.  Occasionally  he  strikes  a  note  or  two.  Behind  the 
reading-desk  kneels  Jasper.  The  open  book  is  before  him. 
As  the  curtain  rises  he  is  reading  aloud. 

JASPER 

"...  and  there  was  a  place  where  the  hillside  sloped 
and  beneath  the  cypress- trees  chill  water  fell.  Here  rushes 
grew  and  maidenhair  and  goat-wort,  beloved  by  the  slim- 
shanked  Pan  —  "  [Roland  snores]  He  sleeps  again.  Shall 
I  awaken  him? 

THE  KING 

No.    On  with  the  lullaby. 

136 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  137 

JASPER 

[Reading.]  "And  here  it  was  that  Daphnis  led  Neraea  of 
the  April  eyes,  and  in  the  noon-tide  silence  turned  to  her 
and  said,  'Thy  feet  are  white  as  new-born  lambs,  thy  voice 
is  like  the  honey-comb.  Thy  little  ways,  they  are  too 
sweet  to  tell.  Come,  let  us  lie  here  by  the  running  water. 
It  is  love's  hour.'" 

SEBASTIAN 

[At  the  chess-board.]  You  played  out  of  turn. 

RlNALDO 

No,  you  moved  your  Queen. 

SEBASTIAN 
Not  I!    It  was  this  Pawn  —  and  that  an  age  ago! 

THE  KING 
Ssh!    Go  on,  my  Jasper. 

JASPER 

[Reading.]  "  But,  as  they  lay  and  comforted  one  another, 
their  doom  approached.  For  Aphrodite,  ever  jealous  of 
her  faithless  swain,  spied  them  from  afar  and  cried:  *O 
cruel  Daphnis,  is  it  for  this  that  I  have  cherished  thee? 
Thou,  who  hast  known  my  tenderness,  know  now  my 
wrath!'  And  she  bade  her  son  avenge  his  mother's 
wrong." 

BERTRAM 

[Fishing.]  A  bite!  A  bite  at  last!  [Pulling  in  his  line.] 
Come  in,  you  little  beggar!  No  use  to  struggle!  There! 


I38  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

Hooked  through  the  jaw!     [Holding  up  the  fish.]  Look, 
sire! 

SWANHILD 

[Leaping  to  her  feet.}  Throw  it  back! 

BERTRAM 
What  —  ? 

SWANHILD 

[In  agony]  Throw  it  back  into  the  water!  It  cannot 
breathe!  Oh,  it  is  suffering!  Give  it  to  me  —  [She  tries  to 
take  it] 

BERTRAM 
No  —  no  — 

SWANHILD 
[To  the  King]  Lord,  command  him! 

THE  KING 
Give  her  the  fish,  Bertram. 

BERTRAM 

[Obeying  sulkily]  Take  it!  [To  the  King]  I  meant  it  for 
your  supper,  sire. 

SWANHILD 

[To  the  fish]  Little  darling,  are  you  hurt?  But  there  — 
I  will  not  keep  you!  Swim  home  and  give  them  all  my 
love !  [She  kisses  it  and  drops  it  into  the  sea.  Then,  kneeling 
at  the  edge  of  the  terrace  and  looking  over.]  Good-bye  —  good 
bye  !  [She  kisses  her  hand  towards  the  sea  below] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  139 

THE  KING 
Come,  little  soft  heart!    We  are  waiting! 

SWANHILD 
[Returning  to  her  original  position.]  Forgive  me,  lord. 

THE  KING 
Read  on. 

JASPER 

"Quickly  Love  drew  his  bow  and  fitted  to  the  string  a 
silver-barbed  arrow.  Like  summer  lightning  fell  the  shaft 
and  pierced  both  brown  and  white  breasts  where  they  clung 
together.  Shrill  wailed  the  nymph  and  deep  the  herds 
man's  groan.  Then,  as  the  dark  stream  flowed  forth  from 
their  hearts  and  the  grass  on  which  they  lay  flushed  red  for 
pity,  they  kissed  and  murmured,  'We  die,  O  beloved,  but 
our  love  can  never  die!'"  [Valentine  strikes  a  mournful 
chord,  sings  a  few  notes.]  How  can  I  read  when  he  is  bray 
ing,  sire? 

VALENTINE 

I  do  not  bray.    I  chant  a  requiem. 

THE  KING 
Peace,  Valentine!    Till  the  tale  is  told! 

JASPER 

[Reading.]  "And  saying  this,  they  closed  their  eyes. 
And  from  each  drop  of  blood  a  wild-rose  grew,  and  from 
each  tear,  a  violet.  Thus  ended,  in  this  life,  the  loves  of 


i4o  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

the  herdsman,  Daphnis,  and  the  nymph,  Neraea."    [Clos 
ing  the  book.}  A  sad  tale! 

RlNALDO 

And  vilely  told.  [Playing]  Check!  My  game!  [Look 
ing  up.}  I  like  stories  about  dragons  and  hippogriffs  — 

SEBASTIAN 

Yes,  and  heroes  with  golden  armour  and  a  good  stout 
sword  —  [Looking  down]  Your  move. 

BERTRAM 

Sebastian  is  right.  This  Daphnis  fellow  was  nothing 
but  a  poor  lovesick  oaf. 

VALENTINE 

And  that  nymph  —  what  was  her  name,  Jasper?  A 
hussy,  a  gypsy  if  ever  there  was  one!  Living  all  alone  in  a 
tree  —  bah! 

JASPER 

[To  the  sleeping  Roland.}  Awake,  O  snoring  one!  What? 
Do  you  slumber  still?  [Throwing  a  cushion  at  him.}  Take 
that! 

ROLAND 

[Awaking  suddenly.}  I  am  not  asleep.  I  can  listen  better 
with  my  eyes  closed  —  that  is  all.  [A  general  laugh.] 

THE  KING 
Then  tell  us  how  the  story  ended. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 


141 


ROLAND 

Why,  the  goatherd  married  Madam  Venus  and  together 
they  lived  happily  ever  —  [He  is  interrupted  by  a  burst  of 
laughter  and  a  volley  of  cushions.] 


Enough !    Enough ! 


THE  KING 


RINALDO 


Back  to  your  dreams! 

VALENTINE 
A  tribute  to  the  poet! 


Together 


ROLAND 

[Rising.]  Well,  if  he  did  not  marry  some  lass,  he  pined 
away  and  died.  And  I,  for  one,  am  not  sorry.  Valentine, 
play  us  a  tune!  [Valentine  begins  to  play  on  his  lute.] 

THE  KING 

[Turning  to  Swanhild.]  And  what  did  my  little  page 
think  of  the  tale?  Did  she,  too,  find  it  somewhat  sad? 


No,  lord. 


SWANHILD 


THE  KING 


[Gently  mocking.]  What?    Could  you  not  give  one  tear 
to  those  poor  lovers  and  their  untimely  end? 


142  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

No,  lord.    They  only  died. 

THE  KING 
And  is  not  death  a  sorrowful  thing? 

SWANHILD 

[Simply.]  Why,  lord?  Surely  they  went  to  Paradise. 
They  are  together  there.  So  all  is  well. 

THE  KING 

[A  little  bitterly.]  Could  even  Paradise  give  back  the 
happiness  they  tasted  here  —  and  lost? 

SWANHILD 
Oh  yes,  dear  lord! 

THE  KING 

The  sweetest  of  all  sweet  things,  my  little  page,  is  human 
love.  It  is  the  wine  we  tread  out  of  the  grapes  of  life.  And 
even  when  we  have  drunk  deep  of  that  enchanted  vintage 
and  the  fire  in  our  veins  has  told  us  we  are  not  men,  but 
gods  —  even  then  it  is  a  bitter  thing  to  drop  the  empty  cup, 
and  die.  But  oh!  little  Swanhild,  it  is  bitterer  still  to  leave 
the  cup  un tasted,  to  close  our  eyes  forever  with  no  mem 
ories  of  that  draught  divine  —  to  carry  to  our  graves  the 
little  love-words  we  have  never  said  —  the  desperate  kisses 
we  have  never  given  —  the  unawakened  rapture  in  our 
hearts.  [A  silence.]  Am  I  not  right?  Come,  little  found 
ling  —  tell  me  what  you  think ! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  143 

SWANHILD 

You  will  not  laugh  at  me? 

THE  KING 
No  —  no. 

SWANHILD 

Lord,  I  know  the  dear,  warm  human  love  is  sweet  — 
sometimes  I  think  I  know  it  far  too  well.  It  is  a  golden 
dream  that  melts  into  the  night.  But,  lord,  it  does  not  die. 
Beyond  the  stars  we  find  it  once  again  —  a  dream  come 
true  for  all  eternity.  Ah,  lord,  I  think  that  lovers  are  like 
children,  meeting  in  the  night.  They  feel  a  little  hand 
touch  theirs  and  hold  it  tight  through  all  the  lonely  hours. 
And  when  the  morning  breaks,  they  turn  and  gaze  in  one 
another's  eyes  and  for  the  first  time  see  whom  they  kissed 
and  clung  to  in  the  dark.  And  then,  still  hand  in  hand, 
they  rise  and  walk  through  God's  green  garden,  where  the 
angels  swim  like  birds  around  His  throne. 

THE  KING 
[Smiling.]  Ah,  happy  child !   What  do  you  know  of  love? 

SWANHILD 

Not  much,  my  lord.  And  yet  I  sometimes  think  that 
I  know  all  a  woman  can  —  and  more  —  and  more  — 
[Struck  by  a  sudden  thought  the  King  leans  over,  lifts  her  chin, 
and  looks  into  her  face.] 

THE  KING 
Who  is  he? 


144  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

Lord,  I  — I  — 

THE  KING 

A  countryman  of  mine?  Someone  I  know?  A  member 
of  my  court? 

SWANHILD 
Please,  lord  — 

THE  KING 

One  of  the  pages?  Young  rascals!  I've  caught  them 
making  eyes  at  you !  No?  I  have  it  now !  The  wandering 
poet  who  wrote  two  rondels  and  a  sonnet  on  your  ears! 
What?  Not  the  poet?  Then  — 

SWANHILD 
Dear  lord,  I  beg  you  —  they  will  hear  — 

THE  KING 

[Suddenly.]  A-ha!  So  that  is  where  the  wind  blows,  is 
it?  [Gaily,  to  his  companions.]  Go,  gentlemen  —  leave  us 
for  a  space!  We  speak  of  solemn  matters  and  must  be 
alone! 

RINALDO 

[Smiling.]  Come,  Bertram. 

BERTRAM 
[Drawing  in  his  line.]  I  had  a  nibble,  too! 

VALENTINE 
Show  me  your  new  horse. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  145 

ROLAND 

He  is  Arabian  —  cream-white  —  fifteen  hands  tall.    I 
bought  him  from  — 

SEBASTIAN 
I'll  race  you,  Jasper,  to  the  tower  and  back. 

JASPER 

[Yawning.]  Hi-yi!    Too  hot!    I'm  for  a  swim  —  [And 
as  they  speak  they  wander  of  into  the  palace.] 

THE  KING 
[As  they  disappear.]  Well?    Which  one  of  them  is  he? 

SWANHILD 

Ah,  lord,  I  beseech  you  —  do  not  — 

THE  KING 
[Inexorably.]  Jasper?  Bertram?  Valentine?   Rinaldo  — 

SWANHILD 

No  —  no  —  your  comrades  —  how  could  I  think  of  them 
when  —  [She  stops  suddenly.] 

THE  KING 
What?    Not  one  of  my  friends?    Who  is  there  left? 

SWANHILD 
[Whispering.]  I  am  ashamed  — 


i46  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 
You  will  not  say? 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  lord,  be  merciful! 

THE  KING 
Describe  him. 

SWANHILD 
[Drooping.]  I  —  I  cannot,  lord  — 

THE  KING 

You  must.  [Lifting  her  head.]  Come  — look  at  me! 
There  —  that  is  right!  Now  tell  me  all  I  ask.  How  old 
is  he? 

SWANHILD 

[Timidly.]  How  old  are  you,  my  lord? 

THE  KING 
Is  that  an  answer?  Quick  —  when  was  the  fellow  born? 

SWANHILD 
The  same  year,  lord,  that  you  were. 

THE  KING 
What  does  he  look  like?  Is  he  tall? 

SWANHILD 
Yes,  lord. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  147 

THE  KING 
Taller  than  I? 

SWANHILD 
No,  lord.  About  the  same. 

THE  KING 

[Smiling.]  Sol  My  height  as  well  as  age!  Has  then  this 
rascal  nothing  of  his  own?  Is  he  —  er  —  handsome? 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  he  is  beautiful! 

THE  KING 
[Mocking.]  There  speaks  the  woman! 

SWANHILD 

[Gazing  at  him  adoringly.]  His  eyes  are  two  blue  jewels  — 
they  shine  like  star-fish  in  the  night.  His  hair  is  softer 
than  the  waving  sea-moss.  His  mouth  is  coral.  His  skin 
is  clear  as  amber  —  the  blood  within  shines  redder  than 
the  red  light  of  the  sun  — 

THE  KING 

[Interrupting  her.]  Enough!  No  need  for  more!  I  see 
him  plain  as  my  reflection  in  a  glass.  A  lambkin!  A  lap- 
dog!  A  thing  of  meal  and  honey  that  curls  its  eyelashes 
and  calls  itself  a  man! 

SWANHILD 

[Quickly.]  No  —  no!  You  must  not  say  such  things! 
They  are  not  true!  Why,  he  is  stronger  than  the  mightiest 
whirlpool,  as  graceful  as  the  dolphins  when  they  dive  and 


148  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

play  and  leap  into  the  air!  He  can  be  fiercer  than  the 
sword-fish,  more  terrible  than  any  ravening  shark  —  yes, 
and  tender,  too  —  as  tender  as  the  little  waves  that  rock 
the  baby  mermaids  to  their  rest. 

THE  KING 
[With  a  smile.]  Perfection  moulded  in  the  human  form. 

SWANHILD 
[Suddenly  timid  again]  Yes,  lord.    Ah,  do  not  smile! 

THE  KING 

[Tenderly]  My  child,  if  he  were  here,  I  think  he  would 
be  smiling,  too. 

SWANHILD 

[Vexed.]  But  it  is  so,  I  tell  you!    That  is  what  he  is! 

THE  KING 

[Soothingly]  I  know,  I  know!  [Half -mocking,  half- 
wistful]  And  does  he  love  you  very  much,  this  nameless 
nonpareil? 

SWANHILD 

I  am  not  sure.  Sometimes  I  think  he  loves  me  a  little  — 
and  sometimes  not  at  all.  But  in  my  heart  hope  still  is 
burning,  lord,  and,  when  I  sleep,  I  dream  of  human  joys 
and  an  immortal  soul. 

THE  KING 

Come  —  come!  However  fine  the  fellow  be,  he  shall 
not  juggle  with  your  young  affections.  No,  by  my  king 
dom,  he  shall  play  the  man  and  marry  you  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  149 

SWANHILD 

Dear  lord  — 

THE  KING 

And  I  myself  will  give  the  bride  away.  And  then  for 
your  sake,  dear,  I'll  make  him  —  let  me  think!  what  post 
about  the  Court  is  vacant?  Ah,  I  have  it!  Lord  High 
Guardian  of  the  Royal  Greyhounds!  There!  And  all  that 
I  shall  ask  him  in  return  is  to  let  me  talk  sometimes  to  his 
young  wife  when  I  am  sad  or  lonely. 

SWANHILD 

Lord,  you  are  a  great  king,  but  here  you  can  do  nothing. 
If  by  some  happy  chance  he  stoops  to  me,  my  joy  will  never 
end.  But  if  —  if  he  smiles  and  passes  by,  I  shall  not  blame 
him.  No,  though  I  lose  my  soul,  I  shall  love  him  just  the 
same.  [He  does  not  answer.]  Why,  there  are  tears  in  your 
eyes!  Lord,  what  is  it?  What  is  in  your  heart? 

THE  KING 
My  dear  —  my  dear  — 

SWANHILD 

Why  do  you  look  at  me  like  that?  You  have  never 
looked  at  me  that  way  before.  Oh,  I  think  I  am  afraid  — 

THE  KING 

Little  maid,  there  is  nothing  to  fear.  I  want  to  tell 
you  something. 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  lord  — 


150  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 

So  many  times  I  have  been  going  to  tell  you,  but 
something  always  happened.  Why,  only  last  night  at  the 
fountain  —  you  remember?  The  words  were  on  my  tongue 
when  Valentine  came  blundering  down  the  stairs.  [Sud 
denly.]  My  dear,  how  white  you  grow!  [Taking  her  hand.] 
And  you  are  trembling,  too ! 

SWANHILD 

It  is  —  for  joy  — 

THE  KING 

Ah,  you  have  guessed  my  secret  then. 

SWANHILD 

Yes  —  no  —  I  do  not  dare  —  tell  me,  my  dearest  lord  — 
let  me  hear  it  from  your  lips  — 

THE  KING 
I,  too,  am  in  love.    [Slight  pause.] 

SWANHILD 
[Whispering.]  Yes,  lord. 

THE  KING 

[Smiling.]  "Yes,  lord!"  And  is  that  all?  Are  you  then 
satisfied?  Have  you  no  further  care? 

SWANHILD 
What  can  I  say? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  151 

THE  KING 

Ask  me  if  she  is  beautiful  —  and  if  I  love  her! 

SWANHILD 
Lord,  is  she  —  is  she  beautiful? 

THE  KING 
She  is  an  angel  with  a  woman's  eyes. 

SWANHILD 
And  —  do  you  love  her? 

THE  KING 
I  would  give  my  soul  to  call  her  mine! 

SWANHILD 

[In  sudden  rapture.]  Then  take  her  in  your  arms,  lord  — 
kiss  her  —  hold  her  close  — 

THE  KING 
Ah,  child!    If  I  only  could! 

SWANHILD 
What  stops  you,  dearest?    Look!    Is  she  not  here? 

THE  KING 
I  would  to  God  she  were!    [Pause.] 


152  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Quietly.]  Lord,  who  is  this  woman  that  you  love? 

THE  KING 
I  do  not  know  her  name  or  what  she  is.   That  is  my  grief. 

SWANHILD 
Where  did  you  meet? 

THE  KING 
You  know  that  I  was  shipwrecked  not  long  since? 

SWANHILD 
I  know. 

THE  KING 

The  waves  had  washed  me  to  the  Holy  Isle  and  left  me 
half-dead,  lying  on  its  shore.  And  there  she  found  me. 
She  had  saved  my  life.  I  woke  to  find  her  dear  eyes  looking 
into  mine  —  her  arms  around  me.  Above  us,  in  the  apple- 
tree,  a  bird  sang  and  she  smiled. 

SWANHILD 
And  then,  lord? 

THE  KING 

We  were  alone  —  in  Paradise!  But  the  end  came  soon. 
It  was  too  sweet  to  last ! 

SWANHILD 
[Tenderly.]  Dear  lord! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  153 

THE  KING 

The  bell  rang  and  the  maidens  led  us  to  the  convent. 
The  nuns  were  kind  and  gave  me  bread  and  wine.  All  that 
day  and  the  next,  I  slept  and  dreamed.  But  when  at  last 
I  woke  and  asked  for  her,  they  answered  she  had  gone! 
Yes,  gone  —  may  God  forgive  them!  and  not  one  would 
say  where !  It  was  no  use  to  beg  or  to  command  —  they 
smiled  when  I  told  them  I  was  King.  And  then,  for  the 
horror  of  the  wreck  was  still  upon  me,  my  brain  gave  way. 
I  cursed  —  I  threatened  them  —  I  wept  —  I  raved  — until 
they  put  me  in  a  little  boat  and  sent  me  from  their  shore. 

SWANHILD 
And  is  that  all? 

THE  KING 

Yes  —  all.  The  memory  of  her  face  beneath  the  apple- 
blossoms  —  her  kiss  —  and  this  —  [He  draws  from  his 
breast  a  locket,  opens  it,  and  shows  it  to  Swanhild.] 

SWANHILD 

[Her  voice  trembling.]  What  is  it,  lord?  It  grows  so 
dark  —  I  —  I  cannot  see  —  [She  bends  to  look.] 

THE  KING 

One  of  the  violets  we  offered  at  Love's  shrine.  [Sud 
denly.]  Wait!  Something  fell  upon  my  wrist!  Why,  child, 
you  are  not  weeping? 

SWANHILD 

I,  lord?  No!  It  was  only  a  drop  of  dew  from  the 
heavens  above  us.  See  —  the  stars  are  coming.  It  will 
soon  be  night. 


154  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 
Give  me  your  hand. 

SWANHILD 
[Obeying.]  Yes,  lord. 

THE  KING 

[Smiling.]  I  put  this  ruby  on  your  finger  —  [Doing  so.] 
There!  It  is  a  drop  of  blood  from  the  bottom  of  my 
heart  —  the  depths  that  you  have  looked  into  tonight. 
Wear  it  until  that  lucky  man  you  told  me  of  shall  take  you 
in  his  arms  and  say,  "Swanhild,  I  love  you!"  Then  slip 
it  off  to  make  room  for  another  and  throw  it  far  away. 

SWANHILD 

[Bursting  into  tears.]  I  —  I  cannot  bear  it,  lord  —  it  is 
too  much  —  too  much  — 

THE  KING 

[Astonished.]  Why,  Swanhild  —  child  —  what  have  I 
done  to  hurt  you?  There  —  there !  Forgive  me  —  I  did 
not  mean  it  —  why,  little  friend,  I  would  not  hurt  you  for 
the  world  — 

SWANHILD 

[Sobbing  as  she  clings  to  him.]  My  lord  —  my  dearest, 
dearest  lord  — 

THE  KING 

[Still  comforting  her.]  Have  I  said  something  careless 
that  has  wounded  you? 

SWANHILD 
No  —  no  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  155 

THE  KING 

[Tenderly.]  Was  it  the  ring?  Why,  child,  you  need  not 
wear  it  if  it  makes  you  weep !  Come  —  give  it  back  to  me ! 

SWANHILD 

No  —  never  —  I  shall  wear  it  always  — 

THE  KING 

[As  to  a  child.]  What  is  it  then?  [Drawing  her  to  him.] 
Put  your  head  here  —  so!  [Soothingly.]  Now  tell  me  the 
trouble  and  let  me  kiss  it  all  away! 

SWANHILD 
[Close  to  him.]  Lord  —  it  is  you  — 

THE  KING 
Me? 

SWANHILD 

I  am  so  sorry  for  you  —  I  cannot  bear  that  you  should 
be  unhappy  — 

THE  KING 
You  foolish  child! 

SWANHILD 

Or  sad  or  lonely!    I  know  so  well,  lord,  what  you  need. 

THE  KING 
And  what  is  that? 

SWANHILD 

Someone  to  follow  all  the  moods  that  sweep  your  soul 
like  summer  winds  at  sea.  Someone  to  find  her  way  down 


156  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

to  your  secret  garden  and  meet  you  there  among  the  stars 
and  flowers.  Someone  to  turn  your  blood  to  ice  and  fire  — 
then  hold  you  in  her  mother  arms,  and  sing  you  fast  asleep. 

THE  KING 
A  woman  to  love  me  —  that  is  what  you  mean. 

SWANHILD 

Yes,  lord. 

THE  KING 
I  found  and  lost  her.  She  comes  to  us  but  once. 

SWANHILD 
Are  you  sure? 

THE  KING 
My  child  — 

SWANHILD 

[Piteously  as  she  takes  his  hand  and  kisses  it.]  Lord,  look 
at  me!  I  know  that  you  are  King  and  that  I  am  only  a 
poor  little  waif,  cast  up  by  the  sea  at  your  palace  stairs. 
Riches  and  power  and  glory  —  they  are  yours  and  I  have 
nothing.  Yet,  lord,  in  spite  of  all,  I  have  dared  to  lift  mine 
eyes  and  —  [Just  here,  from  out  at  sea,  comes  the  boom  of  a 
gun.  They  listen,  startled.  Another  follows .]  What  is  that? 
[A  third  gun  is  heard.] 

THE  KING 

[Rising.]  Three  guns  —  the  royal  salute!  [And,  as  he 
speaks,  from  inside  the  palace  sound  the  answering  trumpets. 
There  are  shouts.  The  doors  burst  open  and  his  comrades  in 
high  excitement  rush  upon  the  scene.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  157 

VALENTINE 
A  ship! 

SEBASTIAN 

A  ship  is  coming  down  the  bay! 

ROLAND 
Look,  sire!    Do  you  see  her  lights? 

BERTRAM 
They  say  she  hails  straight  from  the  Southern  Sea. 

ROLAND 
She  bears  the  embassy  from  Southland  to  your  Court. 

BERTRAM 
Your  marriage  offers  then  have  been  received. 

JASPER 

She  brings  to  you  the  answer  of  the  Queen. 
[Lord  Otho  enters  from  the  palace.] 

LORD  OTHO 
Sire  — 

THE  KING 
Is  it  true? 

LORD  OTHO 

A  ship  from  Southland  has  entered  port.  Her  prow  is 
turned  here  to  the  palace  stairs.  Doubtless  she  bears  on 
board  the  Queen's  ambassador. 


158  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 
I  am  enfolded  in  a  spider's  web  — 

LORD  OTHO 

Is  it  your  pleasure,  sire,  to  greet  him  as  he  disembarks  or 
wait  for  him  within  the  palace  doors? 

THE  KING 
[Kissing  his  locket.]  White  bird,  good-bye  — 

LORD  OTHO 
Your  Majesty? 

THE  KING 

[Turning  to  him.]  Forgive  me,  lord.  My  mind  is  wander 
ing.  Here!  Let  me  learn  my  sentence  here! 

LORD  OTHO 

[To  the  slaves,  who  enter,  laden,  from  the  palace.]  Quick! 
Quick!  Bring  cedar  torches!  Turn  night  to  day!  Hang 
all  these  columns  with  your  wreaths  and  garlands  until 
the  marble  blossoms  like  the  rose!  [The  slaves  run  to  and 
fro  over  the  stage,  carrying  out  his  orders.  Meanwhile  the 
King's  companions  are  at  the  back,  looking  of  at  the  sea.] 

VALENTINE 
She  has  passed  the  sand  bar! 

SEBASTIAN 
She  is  drawing  near! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  159 

ROLAND 

Hark!  There  is  music  on  her  decks!  [Faint  music 
gradually  growing  nearer.] 

LORD  OTHO 

[To  other  slaves.]  Run!  Run!  Heap  incense  on  the  fire 
and  fill  those  silver  lamps  with  perfumed  oil.  [To  others.] 
What  have  you  in  those  basins?  Orange  water?  Sprinkle 
the  floors  —  then  scatter  them  with  fresh-cut  sprigs  of 
mint. 

BERTRAM 

[At  back.]  Look!    Her  crew  are  climbing  up  the  masts! 

RINALDO 
Sire,  they  are  cheering  you! 

ALL  THE  YOUNG  MEN 

[Cheering  and  waving.]  Hurrah!  Hurrah!  Hurrah! 
[The  music  and  the  shouting  grow  ever  nearer  and  nearer.] 

LORD  OTHO 

[To  the  pages.]  Is  that  the  King's  chair?  Good!  But 
where  are  his  royal  robes,  his  crown,  his  sceptre? 

SWANHILD 

[Who  has  taken  them  from  the  pages  and  is  herself  putting 
them  on  the  King.]  I  have  them  here. 

VALENTINE 
[Shouting.]  Welcome!    Welcome  to  our  land! 


160  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SEBASTIAN 
[Running  to  the  King.}  She  comes,  sire! 

THE  KING 

Fate,  I  call  these  stars  to  witness  I  defy  you  still.  [He 
sits  in  his  great  chair,  as,  with  a  burst  of  music  and  wild 
cheers,  the  galleon  enters  at  the  back  and  comes  to  rest.  The 
decks  are  crowded  with  sailors,  who  shout  and  wave  as  they 
hang  over  the  gunwale.  Quickly  the  ship  is  made  fast,  a 
gangway  is  put  in  place,  two  sailors  unroll  a  carpet  down  its 
length,  and,  as  the  King  rises  to  his  feet,  the  Ambassador  steps 
proudly  to  the  shore.} 

THE  AMBASSADOR 
Sir,  are  you  the  King  of  the  Blue  Mountains? 

THE  KING 
I  am. 

THE  AMBASSADOR 

[Prostrating  himself.}  Hail  then,  O  lord  of  a  thousand 
chariots!  I  bring  you  greetings  from  the  Daughter  of  the 
Sun. 

THE  KING 

May  the  years  increase  her  riches  and  spread  wide 
her  fame.  Happy  are  you,  and  happy  are  these  your 
servants  to  stand  within  the  orbit  of  her  light.  Come  — 
rise!  These  shores  are  yours  and  all  I  have  is  yours. 
And  now  farewell  to  compliment  —  what  says  your 
Queen? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  161 

THE  AMBASSADOR 

Imperial  Power,  she  has  received  with  joy  your  embassy. 
Your  gifts  have  dazzled  her  —  your  offers  struck  her  dumb. 
Here  in  my  breast  I  bear  her  answer  —  [As  the  King 
stretches  out  his  hand]  But  first,  I  pray,  accept  proofs  of 
her  gratitude  —  poor  protestations  of  her  deep  regard. 
[Turning  towards  the  ship  and  clapping  his  hands.}  Come! 
Bring  your  burdens  to  the  throne!  [To  the  King]  What 
little  that  the  Queen  can  offer,  lord,  she  bade  us  lay  here 
at  your  royal  feet.  [Slaves  run  forth  from  the  ship.  They 
carry  high  in  the  air  great  baskets,  heaped  with  flowers,  which, 
as  they  kneel,  they  empty  before  the  King,  then  run  back  to  the 
ship]  Star  jasmine  from  the  vines  that  frame  her  win 
dows  —  wistaria  that  veils  her  palace  walls.  Pomegranate 
flowers  as  red  as  pigeon's  blood,  and  sacred  lilies,  cut 
with  a  silver  sickle  by  the  light  of  the  moon  —  [More  slaves 
appear  from  the  ship,  carrying  on  their  heads  gold  platters 
piled  with  fruit.  These,  too,  are  laid  before  the  King]  Figs, 
too,  and  golden  apricots.  Dates  from  the  palms  that 
guard  her  desert  wells.  Blood  oranges  grown  on  ancient 
battlefields,  and  grapes  —  each  one  a  globe  of  purple 
wine.  [And  still  the  slaves  come  on,  carrying  more  gifts, 
always  laying  them  at  the  King's  feet.]  Fresh  sandal-wood 
from  her  forest-covered  hills  and  scented  candles,  made  of 
wax  and  silver.  Aloes  and  cinnamon  in  these  coffers  here, 
and  there  a  box  of  cloves  and  frankincense.  [To  the  slaves.] 
Unroll  the  carpets.  [To  the  King]  They  are  of  magic  colors 
and  designs.  A  lump  of  ambergris,  the  ivory  from  a 
young  male  elephant.  Bags  filled  with  gold,  the  sifted 
treasure  of  her  river-sands.  [As  the  following  appear] 
White  peacocks  from  her  royal  garden,  enchanted  apes 
that  talk  and  think  like  men,  a  negro  king  to  be  your 


162  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

cup-bearer.  [Kneeling.]  And  last  of  all,  Divinity,  this 
casket  from  my  lady  and  my  Queen.  [In  silence  the  King 
takes,  opens,  and  draws  from  it  a  scroll.  In  silence  he  unfolds 
and  reads  it.  A  pause] 

LORD  OTHO 
[Anxiously]  Sire,  we  are  waiting. 

THE  KING 

[In  a  clear  voice.]  My  lord,  Her  Majesty  accepts  our 
marriage  offers.  [A  murmur  of  jubilation  runs  through  the 
Court] 

LORD  OTHO 

Now  God  be  praised!  [Turning  to  the  Court]  Where  is 
the  Captain  of  our  fleet? 

THE  CAPTAIN 
[Stepping  forward]  Here,  my  lord. 

LORD  OTHO 

Pardon,  I  did  not  see  —  mine  eyes  weep  tears  of  joy.  In 
the  King's  name,  prepare  the  ship  of  state! 

THE  KING 
[Protesting]  My  lord  — 

LORD  OTHO 

[Continuing]  At  dawn  tomorrow  he  will  set  sail  for  the 
South  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  163 

THE  KING 
[Rising.]  No  —  no  —  wait!    I  command  you  — 

LORD  OTHO 

[Turning  to  him.]  Sire,  would  you  have  it  said  you  dal 
lied,  before  you  journeyed  forth  to  claim  your  bride? 

THE  KING 

Tomorrow,  then.  [To  the  Ambassador,  with  a  smile.} 
I  am  ashamed,  my  lord,  to  show  my  eagerness.  Here,  take 
this  chain.  [Putting  it  round  his  neck.]  Not  as  mere 
recompense  —  no  jewels  could  repay  you  for  the  news  you 
bring  —  but  as  a  pact  of  good-will  between  you  and  me, 
between  your  land  and  mine. 

THE  AMBASSADOR 

[Kissing  his  hand.}  O  mighty  one,  I  am  your  slave  for 
ever. 

THE  KING 

[Winningly.]  No,  not  my  slave  —  my  friend.  [Music  is 
heard  from  within  the  palace.]  Music.  The  feast  awaits  — 
you  must  not  be  delayed.  Lord  Otho,  will  you  lead  our 
guests  within  and  act  as  host  for  their  high  entertainment? 
[To  the  Ambassador.}  Forgive  me  if  I  do  not  follow  you, 
but  for  a  time  I  would  be  quite  alone.  As  you  can  guess, 
lord,  I  have  much  to  think  of.  So  fare  you  well  until  we 
meet  again!  [The  trumpets  sound  and,  led  by  Lord  Olho,  the 
Ambassador  goes  into  the  palace,  followed  by  his  retinue  and 
the  Court.  Only  the  King's  comrades  remain.] 


164  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SEBASTIAN 
Are  we  again  to  feast  without  you? 

THE  KING 
Yes. 

ROLAND 
But  why? 

THE  KING 

I  am  in  no  mood  tonight  for  wine  and  roses.     My 
thoughts,  dear  friends,  are  bent  on  other  things. 

BERTRAM 
[Slyly.]  On  Southland,  sire,  for  one? 

THE  KING 

[With  a  great  bitterness.]  Yes  —  Southland.     [His  com 
panions  laugh.  ] 

JASPER 

[Merrily.]  They  always  said  that  lovers  live  on  air! 

RlNALDO 

So?   Let  us  leave  him  to  his  dinner  then! 

SEBASTIAN 

To  stalk  beside  a  sea-nymph  haunted  shore  and  hymn 
his  mistress  to  the  jealous  moon. 

ROLAND 
[At  the  door.]  Come!    I,  for  one,  am  hungry! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  165 

BERTRAM 

Good  night,  O  wild-eyed  swain!  [Still  laughing,  they  go 
of  into  the  palace.  The  King  thinks  he  is  alone.] 

THE  KING 

[To  himself.]  Dear  God!  [Swanhild  rises  from  where  she 
has  been  crouching  by  his  throne  and  timidly  puts  her  hand 
on  his  shoulder] 

SWANHILD 
Lord,  /  am  here. 

THE  KING 

[Taking  her  hand]  Then  stay  with  me,  sweet  child.  Do 
not  leave  me.  I  need  you  now.  [A  little  pause] 

SWANHILD 
Lord,  must  you  sail  tomorrow?    Must  this  thing  be? 

THE  KING 

It  must.  [He  rises]  Here  —  take  my  sceptre  and  my 
crown.  [She  lays  them  on  his  chair]  Unloose  my  robes  — 
for  I  am  very  tired.  [She  does  so  and  they  fall  to  the  ground] 
Dear  little  page,  what  should  I  do  without  you?  [With  a 
sigh  he  throws  himself  on  the  divan]  Now  sing  me  some 
lullaby  your  mother  sang,  and  let  me  sleep  little  —  and 
forget.  [She  picks  up  the  long  lute  and  sits  on  the  ground, 
leaning  her  back  against  his  couch] 

SWANHILD 

[Singing]    Little  fishes  of  the  sea 

Give  my  baby  wishes  three. 


i66  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

A  cap  of  stars  to  bind  his  hair 
And  shine  about  him  everywhere  — 

A  chain  of  jewels  for  his  neck, 
The  treasure  of  the  sunken  wreck  — 

And  best  of  all  things  in  this  life, 
A  little  mermaid  for  his  wife. 

Little  fishes  of  the  sea, 
Give  my  baby  — 

[And,  as  she  sings,  the  torches  flicker  and  go  out,  and  at 
last  the  curtain  falls.] 


SCENE  VII 

The  Queen's  bower.  Through  the  loggia  at  the  back  can  be 
seen  the  soap-bubble  domes  and  spires  of  the  city,  and  be 
yond  the  sea.  At  right  is  the  entrance  to  the  inner  chamber. 
At  left  is  the  entrance  to  the  rest  of  the  palace.  In  the  centre 
is  aflat  marble  basin  from  which  a  slender  jet  of  water  rises 
and  falls.  Towards  the  right,  facing  the  entrance  door,  is 
a  broad  throne  of  marble  slightly  raised  from  the  ground. 
There  are  nightingales  and  canaries  in  cages.  Two  great 
scarlet  macaws  sit  on  ivory  perches. 

At  one  of  the  windows  at  back  kneels  a  maid-oj '-honor,  keeping 
watch  over  the  sea.  In  and  out  of  the  Queen's  rooms  — 
right  —  run  the  other  five,  chattering,  laughing,  dragging 
chests,  carrying  great  armfuls  of  clothes,  robes,  feathers, 
etc.  They  are  recognizable  as  the  girls  of  Scene  III  —  the 
shore  by  the  convent.  Directing  them  is  the  Queen  —  the 
leader  of  the  band  in  Scene  III.  She  is  busily  engaged  in 
packing  her  jewels  and  sorting  her  clothes.} 

THE  QUEEN 
Where  are  my  jewels? 

ARIADNE 

Armida  has  them.    [To  Marietta  who  is  helping  her  carry 
in  a  chest.}  Push  it  further  —  there! 

THE  QUEEN 

[To  Armida.]  Did  you  bring  them  all? 
167 


168  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ARMIDA 
Yes. 

MEDEA 
And  they  are  very  heavy! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Taking  them.]  Orb  —  sceptre  —  seven  necklaces  —  my 
emerald  girdle  — 

ARMIDA 
Bracelets  —  rings  — 

THE  QUEEN 
The  pearls? 

MEDEA 

I  have  them  in  my  robe.     [Suddenly.]  Oh,  Armida  — 
you  stupid! 

ARMIDA 
Well? 

MEDEA 

You  forgot  the  crown!     [Armida  dashes  back  into  the 
inner  room.} 

THE  QUEEN 

[To  Ariadne.]  Is  that  the  muslin  worked  with  silver 
grapes? 

ARIADNE 

[Her  arms  filled  with  clothes.]  Here?    Yes  — 

THE  QUEEN 
[Packing  away  the  jewels  in  a  big  box.]  Leave  it  behind  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  169 

I'm  tired  of  it.    Marietta!    Some  wool  to  wrap  about  these 
sapphires ! 

MARIETTA 

[Tossing  her  a  cushion.]  Will  feathers  do?  [To  Oriana.] 
Take  care  —  that  brocade's  dragging  on  the  floor! 

THE  QUEEN 
The  sceptre's  just  too  long.    It  won't  go  in. 

ORIANA 
We  couldn't  break  that  little  hand  off,  could  we? 

THE  QUEEN 
[Shocked.]  Of  course  not !   It  wouldn't  be  a  sceptre  then. 

ARIADNE 

Here  —  give  it  to  me !  I'll  do  it  up  with  the  robe  of  state 
and  put  them  in  the  bottom  of  this  trunk.  [Armida  re- 
enters  with  crown.] 

ARMIDA 

I  have  it!    It  had  rolled  under  the  bed! 

THE  QUEEN 
[Taking  it.]  You've  bent  it. 

ARMIDA 

No,  it  always  was  a  little  queer.  The  ruby  is  so  big  it 
looks  lopsided. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Dusting  it.]  Girl,  have  you  no  respect?    This  is  the 


lyo  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

crown  of  Southland!    Ariadne,  wrap  it  with  the  sceptre  — 
[Tossing  it.]  Catch! 

ORIANA 

I  don't  see  why  you  take  it  with  you. 

MARIETTA 
They'll  never  let  you  wear  it  at  the  convent. 

MEDEA 
Why,  Sister  Ermyngarde  would  knock  it  off  your  head! 

THE  QUEEN 

Ssh!  Queens  always  travel  with  their  crowns,  and  as 
for  Sister  Ermyngarde,  why  —  [But  she  is  interrupted  by  the 
boom  of  cannon  in  the  city,  far  below,  and  the  faint  sound  of 
music. 

ISOTTA 

[At  the  window.]  Oh!    Oh!    It's  there  —  it's  coming! 

THE  QUEEN 
[In  terror.]  What?    Not  the  ship? 

ISOTTA 

Yes,  out  of  the  West !  From  the  land  of  the  Blue  Moun 
tains  !  I  see  the  white  sails  —  [There  is  a  rush  for  the  window 
among  the  maids-of -honor.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[Ready  to  cry.]  Ariadne!  Marietta!  Come  back  this 
minute!  Medea!  Oriana!  Leave  that  window!  Saints 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  171 

preserve  us,  what  are  you  thinking  of?  Do  you  not  realize 
if  he  finds  me  I  am  lost?  Look  at  those  empty  boxes  — 
nothing  packed,  nothing  ready  —  and  you  stand  chatter 
ing  like  monkeys!  Oh,  it  is  too  much  —  you  are  heartless 
—  you  don't  care  —  [They  all  gather  round  her.] 

ORIANA 

[Kissing  her.]  There!  There!  We  have  plenty  of 
time  — 

MARIETTA 

It  is  quite  far  off  — 

MEDEA 

Just  a  speck  on  the  ocean! 

ORIANA 
And  we  need  but  a  moment  to  fill  the  trunks  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Still  indignant.]  I  tell  you  you  must  do  it  carefully/  I 
will  not  have  my  dresses  creased  and  wrinkled!  Quick  — 
quick!  [Calling.]  Eglamour!  [To  Armida.]  Where  is  he? 

ARMIDA 

[As  she  packs.]  You  bade  him  fetch  Pandora  from  the 
garden. 

THE  QUEEN 

But  that  was  hours  ago! 

[A  little  negro  page,  in  gayest  Oriental  costume  —  trousers, 
sash,  and  turban,  —  comes  toddling  in,  carrying  under  his 
arm  a  tiny  white  kitten.] 


172  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  QUEEN 

[Running  to  him  and  snatching  the  kitten.]  Eglamour! 
Where  have  you  been?  [To  the  kitten.]  Pandora  darling, 
come  to  mother! 

ARIADNE 

Eglamour!  Bring  me  that  white  dress  with  the  seed- 
pearls —  quick! 

MARIETTA 

Eglamour!    Help  me  fold  this  train! 

ARIADNE 

Eglamour!  That  green  hat  or  I'll  box  your  ears!  [He 
toddles  silently  about  from  one  to  the  other,  staggering  under 
the  weight  of  hats,  furs,  and  brocades.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[To  the  kitten.]  Sweetheart!  Precious!  Why  don't  you 
purr?  Don't  you  feel  well?  Did  you  eat  a  little  lizard? 

ISOTTA 

[At  the  window.]  The  ship  is  getting  bigger  and  nearer. 
I  can  see  the  royal  standard  just  as  plain  —  ! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Turning  to  the  rest.]  Oh,  please  be  quick!  Remember, 
the  Vizier  will  bring  the  King  up  here  the  moment  that  he 
lands! 

MEDEA 

[Packing.]  I  know,  and  where  shall  we  be  then? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  173 

THE  QUEEN 
Caught  —  trapped  like  mice  —  unless  you  hurry! 

ARMIDA 

Have  no  fear.  We  shall  be  on  board  our  own  good 
ship  — 

ORIANA 

The  ship  that  waits  in  secret  for  us  at  the  garden  stairs. 

MARIETTA 

Why,  when  the  King  arrives,  we  shall  be  rushing  over 
the  waves  — 

ARIADNE 

And  every  plunge  of  the  bows  will  bring  us  nearer  to  the 
convent  and  the  Holy  Isle! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Rapturously.]  Escaped  —  flown  —  free!  [Depositing the 
kitten  on  the  throne.]  Eglamour,  give  me  those  white  gloves 
with  the  diamond  clasp  —  [She  packs  vigorously.]  And 
won't  the  Sisters  be  amazed  to  see  us!  [To  Armida,  who 
has  paused  and  is  lost  in  meditation.]  Well,  Armida,  what 
is  it? 

ARMIDA 

Oh,  nothing !    I  was  wondering  — 

THE  QUEEN 

What? 

ARMIDA 

[.4   little  timidly.]  What  Sister  Ermyngarde  will  say. 


174  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

[A  pause.    All  the  maids-of-honor  cease  packing  and  look  at 
each  other.] 

ORIANA 
She  —  may  not  like  it. 

ARIADNE; 
She  may  be  angry ! 

MARIETTA 

You  remember  what  she's  like  when  she  is  angry?  [They 
all  shudder.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[With  bravado.]  You  little  cowards!  Still  afraid  of  that 
old  nutcracker? 

ORIANA 
[Shocked.]  Oh! 

ARIADNE 

I  wouldn't  dare  call  her  that! 

THE  QUEEN 

Why  not?  I'm  not  afraid  of  her!  Oh,  I  know  I  used  to 
be,  but  it  was  different  back  there.  I  was  only  an  un 
educated  school-girl  then.  Now  I'm  a  grown-up  Queen! 

ARMIDA 

Perhaps  Sister  Ermyngarde  won't  see  the  difference. 
[ They  all  seem  to  think  this  probable.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[Decidedly.]  Then  she'll  have  to  learn.  I'm  not  going 
back  in  order  to  study  algebra.  [Grandly.]  No,  I  return  to 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  175 

the  convent  to  seek  sanctuary  and  release  from  an  odorous 
marriage  — 

MARIETTA 
Odious. 

THE  QUEEN 

I  said  "odious."  And  if  Sister  Ermyngarde  doesn't 
understand  and  tries  to  rap  my  knuckles,  I  —  [Drawing 
herself  up.]  I  shall  be  forced,  much  against  my  will,  to  use 
severity. 

ORIANA 

[Much  interested.]  What  will  you  do? 

ARIADNE 
Oh,  tell  us! 

MEDEA 
Please!    [They  all  crowd  round  her.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[Slowly,  with  great  relish.]  Well,  I  shall  probably  send 
home  for  an  army  and  have  her  thrown  into  a  dungeon 
rilled  with  snakes  and  toads  — and  spiders!  [The  girls 
shiver.] 

ORIANA 

[Dazzled.]  Sister  Ermyngarde  in  a  dungeon! 

MEDEA 

[With  a  long  sigh  of  admiration.]  Darling,  you  are  as 
brave  as  a  lion. 


176  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ARIADNE 
[Reverently.]  I  suppose  it  is  being  a  Queen. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Pleased.]  Yes,  Queens  are  always  bold.  We  can't  help 
it.  We  are  made  that  way.  Why,  if  — 

ISOTTA 

[From  the  window,  interrupting.]  The  ship  is  in  the  har 
bour! 

THE  QUEEN 

[In  sudden  terror.]  What?  The  harbour  —  ?  Saints  in 
Heaven,  we  are  lost!  [They  all  begin  packing  feverishly.] 
Medea,  for  pity's  sake  be  careful  of  the  feathers  on  that 
hat !  Here  —  wrap  this  girdle  in  that  scarlet  shawl !  One 
golden  slipper  —  where  on  earth's  the  mate  — 

ARIADNE 
Ah  me! 

THE  QUEEN 
Why  do  you  sigh? 

ARIADNE 

That  poor  young  King  —  ! 

ARMIDA 
Think  how  he  will  suffer! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Uncomfortably.]  I  cannot  help  it. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  177 

MEDEA 

And  they  say  that  he  is  handsome,  too!  [They  have  all 
stopped  packing  again.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[With  a  fond  smile.]  Do  they?  Ah,  but  I'll  wager  he  is 
not  half  as  handsome  as  my  own  heart's  dearest  —  with 
his  black  hair  and  his  blue  eyes,  his  broad  shoulders  and  his 
strong,  white  arms!  [She  falls  into  a  reverie.] 

MARIETTA 
[Scornfully.]  A  sailor-boy! 

ARIADNE 
A  shipwrecked  vagabond! 

ARMIDA 
A  bunch  of  old  rags  1 

THE  QUEEN 
[Rousing  herself.]  What? 

ARMIDA 

[Hastily,  holding  up  a  dress.]  I  —  I  said  this  cloth-of- 
silver  is  a  bunch  of  rags. 

MEDEA 

[Dramatically.]  Lady,  kill  me  if  you  wish  —  but  do  not 
ask  me  to  call  that  fellow  handsome! 


1 78  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ORIANA 
His  nose  was  crooked  — 

ARIADNE 

He  had  a  squint  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Passionately.]  Silence!  How  dare  you  fling  your  insults 
at  the  man  I  love?  [As  one  of  them  is  about  to  speak]  For 
I  love  him!  Do  you  hear?  I  love  him!  And  no  matter  how 
poor  and  nameless  and  forlorn  he  is,  not  one  of  you  is  fit 
to  wipe  the  dust  from  his  dear,  darling  feet! 

MEDEA 

[Sagely]  You  think  so  now,  but  wait  till  you  come  back 
from  the  Holy  Isle. 

MARIETTA 

And  are  wooed  by  all  the  sovereigns  of  the  earth. 

THE  QUEEN 
I  shall  not  come  back  from  the  Holy  Isle. 

MEDEA 
You  do  not  mean  to  stay  there  all  your  life? 

THE  QUEEN 

No,  but  when  winter's  gone  and  spring  is  here  again,  I 
shall  set  sail  and  search  the  whole  world  for  my  dream  — 
my  sailor-boy!  And  then  when  I  have  found  him  —  for 
I  shall  find  him,  never  fear!  —  I  shall  bring  him  home  and 
marry  him  and  crown  him  King — my  King!  [Changing 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  179 

her  tone.}  And  if  you  girls  so  much  as  breathe  one  breath 
against  him,  I'll  tell  him  —  yes,  I  will!  —  and  I  shouldn't 
be  surprised  if  he  had  you  all  beheaded ! 

[Just  here,  from  the  city  below,  come  the  sound  of  the  bells 
and  the  distant  cheering  of  the  crowds.} 

ISOTTA 

[Turning  from  the  window}  The  ship  is  at  the  landing- 
stage  —  the  gangway's  down  — 

MARIETTA 

[More  and  more  excited}  The  crowd's  on  board  —  and 
now  the  Vizier's  gone  into  the  tent  — 

ORIANA 
[Rushing  to  the  window}  The  King  — 

ARIADNE 
[Following  her}  Can  you  see  him? 

ISOTTA 

He  is  slim  and  small!    His  hair  is  pale  gold  in  the  sun 
light! 

ARIADNE 
Does  he  wear  his  crown? 

ORIANA 
What  is  he  doing? 


i8o  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ISOTTA 

I  cannot  see.  There  is  a  rain  of  flowers.  Ah!  now  he 
is  talking  to  the  Vizier  —  and  now  he  mounts  upon  a  milk- 
white  horse  —  the  soldiers  follow  —  they  have  started  — 
they  are  off  — 

MARIETTA 
Oh,  think  of  the  poor  dear  when  he  finds  you  gone! 

ARIADNE 
[To  the  Queen]  Lady  - 

ARMIDA 
Wait  just  a  moment  — 

MEDEA 
[More  boldly}  See  him! 

ORIANA 
Tell  him  why  you  will  not  marry  him  — 

ARMIDA 

And  then  he  cannot  help  but  understand!  [The  Queen 
considers} 

THE  QUEEN 

[To  Armida.]  You  think  he  should  be  told? 

ARMIDA 
[Enthusiastically.]  Yes  —  yes  a  thousand  times! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  181 

THE  QUEEN 

[Calmly.]  That  settles  it.    When  we  have  gone,  you  stay 
behind  and  tell  him.    [She  resumes  her  packing.] 

ARMIDA 

It  is  too  great  an  honor.    [To  Marietta.]  My  dear,  I  pass 
it  on  to  you. 

MARIETTA 

[Recoiling.]  I  never  should  know  what  to  say.    Medea 
has  the  better  claim. 

MEDEA 

What  —  me?    [Pushing  forward  Ariadne.] 

ARIADNE 

[In  despair.]  Oh  heavens  —  [Suddenly  inspired.]  Egla- 
mour!    [They  all  clap  their  hands.] 

MEDEA 
[To  Eglamour.]  Come  here,  you  brat! 

ARMIDA 
You  can't  go  with  us. 

ARIADNE 
You  must  stay  behind  — 

MARIETTA 
And  take  a  message  to  His  Majesty! 


1 82  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

MEDEA 

The  King! 

ARMIDA 

[Shaking  him  with  every  letter.}  K-I-N-G!  [With  a  howl 
E  glamour  breaks  away  from  them  and,  running  to  the  Queen, 
buries  his  turbaned  head  in  her  skirts.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[Comforting  him.]  There  —  there,  you  little  ostrich !  He 
won't  eat  you!  [To  the  girls.]  Bring  pen  and  paper.  [To 
Eglamour.]  All  you  must  do  is  make  three  bows  and  then 
kneel  down  and  hold  him  out  a  letter. 

ISOTTA 

[From  the  window.]  They've  passed  the  church  —  they're 
in  the  market-place! 

THE  QUEEN 

[To  Armida,  who  brings  her  writing  materials.}  Quick  —  ! 
[She  sits  on  the  step  of  the  throne  and  takes  up  the  pen.]  Tell 
me  what  to  say!  [The  girls  gather  about  her.] 

ARIADNE 
[Dictating.]  "0  Greatest  Monarch  in  the  World  —  " 

THE  QUEEN 
No  —  no!   I  cannot  start  out  with  a  lie! 

ARIADNE 
He  is  the  greatest  monarch  in  the  world. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  183 

THE  QUEEN 
He's  no  such  thing.    /  am. 

MARIETTA 
[Hastily.]  "Sweet  Suitor  for  my  Lily  Hand"  — 

THE  QUEEN 

That's  silly.    I  shall  put  plain  "  Sir."    [Writing.]    "Sir, 
I  cannot  marry  you."    Is  that  enough? 

MEDEA 

No,  you  must  tell  him  why.    [Dictating.]  "My  heart  is 
given  to  a  youthful  —  navigator." 

THE  QUEEN 

Youthful  what? 

MEDEA 

[Proudly.]  Navigator. 

THE  QUEEN 
How  do  you  spell  it? 

MEDEA 
[Faltering.]  Two  g's  —  I  think! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Scornfully.]  You  think!  [Writing.]  "I  love  somebody 
else."  [Closing  her  eyes  and  sighing]  And  what  a  some 
body! 


i84  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ORIANA 
[Ironically.]  Yes  —  what  indeed! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Trying  to  box  her  ears.]  Take  that!  [Writing.]  "Forget 
me  and,  if  you  can,  forgive."  There  —  that  will  do. 
Where  are  the  wax  and  the  royal  seal?  [She  begins  sealing 
the  letter.] 

ISOTTA 

[In  wild  excitement  at  the  window.]  Oh!  Oh!  They  have 
left  the  city!  They  are  riding  up  the  hill!  Come,  lady  — 
quick!  You  can  see  him  plain  as  day  —  [The  Queen  hesi 
tates  a  moment,  then  runs  to  the  window  and  looks  out.] 

THE  QUEEN 
[Bitterly.]  Is  that  what  they  would  have  me  marry? 

ARIADNE 
[In  disgust.]  Why,  he's  a  boy. 

ARMIDA 
His  mouth's  still  dripping  with  his  mother's  milk. 

MEDEA 
Lady,  we  must  fly! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Rushing  from  the  window]  Quick !  Close  the  trunks  and 
call  the  slaves!  [Armida  strikes  a  gong  by  the  throne.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  185 

ARIADNE 
[Trying  to  force  down  a  lid.]  Isotta,  stand  on  this. 

MARIETTA 

[To  Oriana,  who  is  on  her  trunk.]  Jump,  jump,  my  darl 
ing  —  [Locking  it.]  There! 

THE  QUEEN 

I'll  take  the  keys.  [She  puts  them  on  a  large  ring.  Mean 
while,  in  answer  to  the  clang  of  the  gong,  four  huge  black  slaves 
have  run  in  and  prostrated  themselves  before  the  Queen.]  Put 
these  boxes  on  your  shoulders  and  run  like  the  west  wind 
to  the  garden  stairs!  [The  slaves  begin  lifting  the  various 
chests  and  coffers.]  Now,  Eglamour  —  [As  she  speaks  she 
picks  him  up  and  sets  him  down  on  the  throne.]  —  here  is  the 
letter.  Are  your  hands  quite  clean?  Remember  —  it  is 
for  the  gentleman  in  white.  And  don't  you  dare  so  much 
as  stir  from  this  throne  till  he  comes! 

EGLAMOUR 
[Suddenly  bursting  into  tears  and  howls.]  A-a-a-ah  —  ! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Shaking  him.]  Be  still!  Be  still,  I  say!  Unless  you 
stop  that  noise  this  minute,  I'll  —  I'll  —  I'll  cut  off  your 
ears  and  throw  them  to  the  crocodiles ! 

ORIANA 

[Rushing  to  the  window.]  They're  at  the  drawbridge  — 
over  it  —  inside  —  [A  wild  scramble  ensues.] 


186  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  QUEEN 

My  cloak!  My  cloak!  [Someone  throws  it  over  her  and 
they  all  rush  for  the  door  —  left.  Suddenly  the  Queen  stops.} 
Please  wait!  Who  fed  the  goldfish?  [Silence.]  I  thought 
so!  Nobody!  [Rushing  back]  Where  is  the  bread?  [They 
all  rush  back] 

MEDEA 
[Seizing  a  loaf  of  bread.]  Here  — 

ARMIDA 
Throw  it  in! 

THE  QUEEN 

No,  break  it  up  —  how  can  they  bite  a  loaf?  There  — 
that's  enough !  Now  run!  [They  all  turn  again  towards  the 
door.  Just  here  one  of  the  birds  begins  to  sing.  Again  the 
Queen  stops]  Oh,  my  canaries  and  my  nightingales!  I 
cannot  leave  them  —  [Rushing  back]  Each  bring  a  cage! 
[They  do  so.]  Have  we  the  bird-seed  and  the  cuttlebone? 

ORIANA 
Hark!    They're  coming  up  the  stairs! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Rushing  for  the  door.}  Quick!  Through  the  council 
chamber  —  follow  me !  [They  all  obey.  This  time  the  Queen 
is  at  the  door,  when  she  utters  a  cry.}  Pandora! 

MARIETTA 
[Pushing  on.}  We  must  leave  her  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  187 

THE  QUEEN 

[Running  back.]  Never!  Where  is  she?  [Wildly.] 
Puss  —  puss  —  puss  —  puss  —  !  [They  all  scatter  and  be 
gin  looking  for  the  kitten.} 

ARIADNE 
[Lifting  up  the  kitten]  I  think  I  stepped  on  her! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Seizing  the  kitten]  My  sweetheart  —  my  precious  — 
[To  the  rest]  We  still  have  time!  Come!  Fly!  [Just  as 
she  reaches  the  door,  followed  by  the  rest,  comes  a  solemn 
knocking  on  the  other  side.  They  all  stand  petrified] 

THE  VIZIER'S  VOICE 

[Stern]  Is  Her  Majesty  within?  [The  slaves  cower  back, 
the  maids-of-honor  break  in  terror  and  try  to  hide  behind  the 
throne.  The  Queen  opens  her  mouth  and  then  shuts  it  again] 

THE  VIZIER'S  VOICE 
[Very  stern]  Answer!    Is  Her  Majesty  there? 

THE  QUEEN 
Don't  roar.    I  heard  you  the  first  time. 

THE  VIZIER'S  VOICE 
It  is  I,  your  Vizier.    Let  me  in. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Defiantly,  to  herself]  So  be  it,  then.  [To  Eglamour,  who 
is  sitting  on  the  throne]  Jump  down.  [To  the  girls]  Come 


i88  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

out,  my  Amazons,  and  join  the  battle-ranks.  [They  obey. 
She  sits  on  the  throne.}  Are  your  bows  strung?  Are  your 
quivers  full?  Yes?  Then,  Eglamour,  throw  open  wide  the 
door!  [He  does  so  and  the  Vizier  enters.  He  stops,  takes  one 
look  at  the  slaves,  carrying  the  trunks,  the  maids-of -honor , 
cloaked  and  laden,  and  the  Queen,  sitting  on  her  throne,  look 
ing  very  haughty,  with  a  kitten  under  one  arm  and  a  cage  of 
canaries  under  the  other. [ 

THE  VIZIER 
[Grimly.}  So!    May  I  ask  where  you  were  going? 

THE  QUEEN 
[Very  nonchalant}  Oh,  for  a  walk  in  the  garden. 

THE  VIZIER 

With  your  boxes  and  bags  and  canaries  and  kittens  and 
gewgaws?  [To  the  slaves.]  Put  down  those  trunks.  [They 
obey.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[Leaping  to  her  feet.]  I  will  not  lie  to  you.  You  asked 
where  I  was  going.  Here  is  my  answer.  Back  to  the  con 
vent  on  the  Holy  Isle! 

THE  VIZIER 
For  how  long,  may  I  ask? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Politely.]  As  long  as  the  King  of  the  Blue  Mountains  is 
your  guest  in  Southland. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  189 

THE  VIZIER 
Madam,  do  you  know  what  you  are  saying? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Stamping  her  foot.]  Yes,  I'm  saying  that  I  won't  marry 
him  —  I  won't  —  I  won't  —  I  won't!  He's  a  miserable 
ricketty,  whey-faced  baby !  A  calf,  a  weanling  that's  never 
cut  his  teeth ! 

THE  VIZIER 

His  Majesty  is  a  well-made,  vigorous  young  man! 

THE  QUEEN 
[Interrupting.]  No  perjury!    I  have  seen  him! 

THE  VIZIER 

Where?    When? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Pointing  to  the  window.]  Now  —  on  his  horse  as  he  rode 
up  to  my  palace.  [The  Vizier  looks  at  her,  then  breaks  into  a 
laugh.]  You  laugh?  By  Heaven,  sir,  this  is  too  much! 
[To  the  slaves.]  Slaves,  seize  this  man! 

THE  VIZIER 

[Still  laughing.]  Wait,  gracious  lady  —  a  moment  before 
you  fling  me  into  chains !  The  King  is  on  his  ship  —  he  has 
not  yet  touched  foot  to  land! 

THE  QUEEN 
[Bewildered  in  her  turn.]  Then  who  rode  up  with  you? 


igo  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  VIZIER 

A  favorite  page,  who  bears  the  royal  messages  and 
greetings. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Delighted  with  a  fresh  opportunity  for  anger.]  A  page? 
A  page  —  ? 

THE  VIZIER 

Listen,  I  beg !  This  is  no  common  page  the  King  has  sent 
you.  She  has  the  greatest  honor  in  his  Court.  She  is  his 
friend,  his  confidante,  his  comrade  — 

THE  QUEEN 
[Interrupting.]  She? 

THE  VIZIER 
[Stopping.]  Have  I  not  told  you?    She  is  a  young  girl. 

THE  QUEEN 

His  page  —  a  girl  —  ?  [Suddenly.]  Why,  then  she  is 
beautiful! 

THE  VIZIER 

Yes,  some  might  think  so,  but  for  myself  I  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Interrupting  him.]  You  say  she  brings  a  message  from 
the  King? 

THE  VIZIER 

The  secrets  and  the  desires  of  his  heart.  [The  Queen 
considers.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  191 

THE  QUEEN 

[At  last.]  Well,  I  will  see  her  —  since  you  ask  it,  sir. 
Go  —  lead  her  in. 

THE  VIZIER 

[Bowing  low.]  O  miracle  of  virtue  and  of  wisdom !  [Open 
ing  the  doors.]  This  way,  sweet  Excellency  —  this  way  to 
Our  Lady  of  a  Thousand  Camels!  This  way  to  the  Ruler 
of  the  Land  of  Gold!  [He  holds  the  door.  Swanhild  en 
ters  slowly  and  a  little  timidly,  her  eyes  cast  down,  cap  in 
hand.  She  bows.] 

THE  QUEEN 

You  wish  to  speak  with  me? 

SWANHILD 

O  Daughter  of  the  Stars!  Great  Queen!  Divin  — 
[She  raises  her  eyes.  She  sees  the  Queen  for  the  first  time. 
Her  words  die  away.  There  is  a  pause.] 

THE  QUEEN 
[Gently.]  I  hear.    Continue. 

SWANHILD 

[Gazing  at  the  Queen.]  My  master  —  my  master  bade  me 
lay  here  —  at  your  feet  —  his  —  his  —  [Breaking  of  and 
putting  her  hand  to  her  brow.}  Madam,  I  am  sure  that  I 
have  seen  your  face  before  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Smiling.]  I  fear  I  cannot  say  the  same  for  you,  and 
yet- 


192  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Interrupting  her,  with  a  sudden  cry.]  Ah  —  ! 

THE  QUEEN 
What  is  it? 

SWANHILD 

[Hardly  able  to  answer.]  Lady  —  one  question!  Did  you 
ever  live  — 

THE  QUEEN 
Well? 

SWANHILD 
On  the  —  Holy  Isle  —  where  the  old  nuns  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Gaily.]  Of  course !  I  was  brought  up  in  their  convent  — 
and  my  maids-of -honor,  too.  It  is  only  a  short  time  since 
we  have  come  back.  [Eagerly.]  Why?  Do  you  know  it? 
Have  you  been  there? 

SWANHILD 

[In  a  strange  voice.]  Yes,  lady  —  once  —  [She  almost 
falls.] 

THE  QUEEN 

Look!  Look!  She  is  swooning  —  quick,  Armida!  The 
wine! 

SWANHILD 

[Recovering  herself.]  A  little  dizziness  —  the  heat  —  the 
ride  —  to  one  fresh  from  the  sea  —  [To  Armida,  who  has 
brought  her  a  cup.]  A  thousand  thanks  —  I  am  myself 
again  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  193 

THE  QUEEN 
[Anxiously.]  You  are  sure? 

SWANHILD 

Quite  sure.    [Lifting  her  head.]  Lady,  I  bear  a  message 
from  my  dear,  dear  master. 

THE  QUEEN 
A  message? 

SWANHILD 

[Glancing  at  the  rest.]  Forgive  me.    It  is  for  no  ear  but 
yours. 

THE  QUEEN 

[To  her  maids.]  Go  in,  my  darlings.    I  will  call  you  soon. 
[The  girls  disappear.] 

AKMXDA 
[Lingering.]  The  ship  —  ? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Smiling.]  No  fear  —  the  ship  will  wait!    [To  the  Vizier.] 
You  hear  that,  Vizier? 

THE  VIZIER 

[Bowing.]  Madam,  I  heard.    But  I  still  trust  my  Queen. 
[He  goes  out,  left.    Swanhild  and  the  Queen  are  alone.] 

THE  QUEEN 
[Confidentially.]  Now  what  did  he  say? 


194  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Burning  her  bridges  behind  her.]  Madam,  he  loves  you. 

THE  QUEEN 
Does  he? 

SWANHILD 

With  all  his  mind,  all  his  heart,  all  his  soul! 

THE  QUEEN 
[Sighing.]  Ah  me! 

SWANHILD 

[Slipping  his  ring  of  her  finger  and  holding  it  out  to  the 
Queen.]  And  as  a  token  of  his  high  passion,  madam,  he 
sends  you  this. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Taking  it.]  A  ruby  —  [She  smiles  and  looks  at  it.] 

SWANHILD 

He  told  me  it  is  a  drop  of  blood  from  the  depths  of  his 
heart  —  the  wounded  heart  that  bleeds  from  love  of  you. 

THE  QUEEN 

Sweet  words  —  [Suddenly  remembering  herself.]  Ah,  but 
no  —  it  is  impossible !  How  can  he  love  me?  He  has  never 
seen  me! 

SWANHILD 

Dear  Madam,  you  are  wrong.    He  has. 

THE  QUEEN 
[Thrilled.]  Do  you  mean  it? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  195 

SWANHILD 

And  from  that  moment  he  has  been  your  slave. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Clapping  her  hands.]  Oh  splendid!  Wonderful!  But 
how?  Where?  When? 

SWANHILD 

[Wistfully.]  Ah,  madam,  you  should  ask  him  that  —  not 
me.  I  dare  not  touch  those  sacred  memories. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Troubled.]  But  I  shall  not  meet  him.  I  am  going 
away. 

SWANHILD 
Away? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Running  down  from  the  throne.]  Here  —  take  his  ring! 
You  must!  I  cannot  wear  it! 

SWANHILD 
Why? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Fluttering.]  Ah,  do  not  ask  me!  But  tell  him  I  am 
grateful,  and  that  I  shall  remember  always  what  he 
said  —  about  the  stone,  I  mean  —  and  that  he  must  not 
grieve  —  too  much,  that  is  —  because  I  —  I  —  I  am  not 
worthy  — 

SWANHILD 

Madam,  you  weep! 


196  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  QUEEN 
[Wiping  her  eyes.]  It  is  for  him. 

SWANHILD 

I  think  he  is  the  luckiest  man  in  all  the  world! 

THE  QUEEN 

But  wait  —  you  do  not  understand!  Come  —  sit  beside 
me  and  I  will  confess.  [She  draws  down  Swanhild  beside 
her  on  the  steps  of  the  throne.} 

SWANHILD 
Confess  —  ? 

THE  QUEEN 

Before  you  came  I  wrote  it  all  out  in  a  letter  —  [Picking 
it  up  from  the  throne.}  See!  here  it  is!  But  now,  dear,  you 
must  tell  him  — 

SWANHILD 
Tell  him  what? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Crying  a  little.}  That  I  cannot  marry  him. 

SWANHILD 
No  —  no! 

THE  QUEEN 

It  is  true!  You  see  I  —  I  —  I  love  somebody  else  — 
[She  buries  her  face  in  her  handkerchief.} 

SWANHILD 

[After  a  slight  pause.}  Who  is  he?  [Silence}  Answer, 
madam. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  197 

THE  QUEEN 
[Behind  her  handkerchief.}  I  cannot  — 

SWANHILD 

Poor  little  Queen !  [Putting  her  arm  about  her.}  Come  — 
rest  your  head  here  on  my  shoulder,  and  shut  your  eyes, 
and  whisper  all  your  troubles  in  my  ear. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Obeying  her.}  You  are  so  kind.  I  do  not  wonder  that 
the  King  is  fond  of  you. 

SWANHILD 

[Gently.]  Ssh!  [Stroking  her  hair.}  Now  when  did  it 
begin? 

THE  QUEEN 
[In  a  small  voice.]  Last  spring  — 

SWANHILD 
While  you  were  at  the  convent? 

THE  QUEEN 
Yes. 

SWANHILD 
[Tenderly.]  Who  was  he? 

THE  QUEEN 

A  sailor.  I  never  knew  his  name.  I  found  him  on  the 
shore.  He  was  half -drowned.  [A  pause.] 


198  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

And  then? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Softly.]  I  brought  him  back  to  life  —  under  the  apple- 
tree.  [She  stops  again.] 

SWANHILD 
And  then? 

THE  QUEEN 

We  gathered  violets  and  put  them  on  the  old  shrine  —  I 
was  afraid,  I  know  —  and  he  laughed  at  me  —  [She  smiles 
to  herself.] 

SWANHILD 
And  then? 

THE  QUEEN 

We  knelt  before  the  altar  and  we  kissed  each  other — and 
the  next  day  I  came  back  to  my  kingdom. 

SWANHILD 
Is  that  the  end? 

THE  QUEEN 

No.    For  I  love  him  still. 

SWANHILD 

This  marriage  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Quickly.]  It  is  my  Council's  work.  If  you  only  knew 
how  I  have  fought  against  it!  But  at  last  this  morning  I 
made  up  my  mind. 

SWANHILD 

To  do  what,  madam? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  199 

THE  QUEEN 

Run  away.  Look!  There  are  my  trunks  and  boxes. 
My  ship  is  waiting  —  I  was  just  going  when  you  came. 
[Throwing  her  arms  about  Swanhild's  neck.]  Oh,  I  am  base 
and  wicked  —  I  know  that !  —  but  somehow  I  cannot  bear 
to  have  your  master  hate  me!  Tell  him  how  miserable  I 
am,  —  just  a  poor,  unhappy,  driven  girl  who  begs  a  little 
mercy  before  he  shuts  her  from  his  heart  and  passes  on. 
Oh,  plead  with  him  —  persuade  him  —  do  your  best! 
[Shyly,  wiping  her  eyes.]  Perhaps  you,  too,  have  loved  some 
one  —  and  understand.  [A  pause.] 

SWANHILD 
[Still  holding  the  Queen  in  her  arms.]  Madam  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Anxiously.]  Yes? 

SWANHILD 

Will  you  meet  the  King?  [The  Queen  tries  to  draw  away, 
but  Swanhild  holds  her.]  Just  once!  I  beg  you!  Tell  him 
all  you  have  told  me  and  then  —  if  you  wish  it  still  — 
why,  say  good-bye. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Rising  and  retreating.]  I  cannot  — 

SWANHILD 
[Rising  and  following  her.]  Why? 

THE  QUEEN 
I  should  not  dare  — 


200  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

You  are  no  coward! 

THE  QUEEN 
A  man  whom  I  have  never  seen  —  ! 

SWANHILD 
Ah,  madam  —  think!    You  owe  him  something! 

THE  QUEEN 
True!    But  still  — 

SWANHILD 
He  loves  you  so! 

THE  QUEEN 
I  do  not  believe  it!    Does  he  really  love  me? 

SWANHILD 
Have  I  not  told  you? 

THE  QUEEN 
Much? 

SWANHILD 

More  than  the  sea  loves  the  moon,  madam.  More  than 
the  earth  loves  the  sun.  More  than  the  lost  ones  love  the 
Paradise  which  they  have  longed  for  and  will  never  find. 

THE  QUEEN 

[With  a  little  sigh.]  As  much  as  that?  [Turning  away.] 
They  tell  me  he  is  ugly. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  201 

SWANHILD 

[Quickly.]  Then,  madam,  they  have  lied.    He  is  a  young 
god  fit  to  walk  among  the  stars. 

THE  QUEEN 

[With  apparent  carelessness.]  So?    What  color  are  his 
eyes? 

SWANHILD 
Blue,  madam. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Pondering.]  Blue.    And  his  hair?    A  fiery  red,  as  I  re 
member. 

SWANHILD 

[Much  injured.]  No,  madam  —  black. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Murmuring.]  Black  hair!    [She  considers.]    And  he  is 
short  of  stature,  is  he  not? 

SWANHILD 

[Proudly.]  No,  madam.    He  is  tall  and  straight  —  like 
a  cypress-tree. 

THE  QUEEN 

His  arms.    I  —  I  have  heard  that  they  are  somewhat  — 
black  and  —  withered? 

SWANHILD 

Madam,  they  are  as  white  as  sea-foam  and  as  strong  as 
steel. 


202  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  QUEEN 

Blue  eyes  —  black  hair  —  and  strong,  white  arms !  It 
is  a  combination  I  think  highly  of.  [She  sighs  again.]  Ah 
me!  My  heart  goes  out  to  this  young  man  —  [Hastily.]  — 
in  pity. 

SWANHILD 
[Eagerly.]  Then  show  it,  madam!    See  him! 

THE  QUEEN 
To  what  use,  when  I  am  pledged  elsewhere? 

SWANHILD 

If  he  must  lose  you,  will  you  not  give  him  first  one 
glimpse,  one  golden  memory  of  your  loveliness  to  light  his 
lonely  journey  down  the  years?  [There  is  a  pause.] 

THE  QUEEN 
[With  a  shrug.]  So  be  it.    [She  sits  on  the  throne.] 

SWANHILD 

[Kneeling  and  seizing  her  hands  with  a  cry  of  joy.]  Oh, 
dearest  madam  —  ! 

THE  QUEEN 
Because  you  plead  so  sweetly  —  that  is  all. 

SWANHILD 

[Looking  up  imploringly  into  her  face.]  And  you  will  keep 
his  ring? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  203 

THE  QUEEN 

t        Until  he  comes  and  I  can  give  it  back.    [Tenderly.]  What 
is  your  name? 

SWANHILD 

Swanhild,  dear  madam. 

THE  QUEEN 
My  thanks,  Swanhild.   [She  bends  forward  and  kisses  her.] 

SWANHILD 

[Rising.]  God  bless  your  Majesty  —  and  send  you  hap 
piness.  Good-bye  —  [She  turns,  quickly  and  blindly,  and 
goes  out.  Left  alone,  the  Queen  looks  at  the  ring,  which  she 
still  holds  and  sighs.  Then,  jumping  up,  she  strikes  the  gong, 
which  stands  by  the  throne.  As  she  beats  it,  the  maids-of- 
honor  all  run  in  from  the  door  at  right] 

THE  QUEEN 

Quick  — open  those  trunks  and  coffers!  Unpack  my 
royal  robes,  my  crown,  my  jewels! 

ISOTTA 

But,  lady,  our  ship  — 

ORIANA 

Our  journey  to  the  Holy  Isle  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Silencing  them]  Ssh  —  !  Do  as  I  bid  you  and  be  still! 
[She  sits  on  her  throne.  The  maids-oj '-honor,  utterly  be 
wildered,  begin  obediently  to  open  the  trunks.} 


204  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

ARIADNE 

[Mischievously,  coming  up  behind  the  throne  and  speaking 
over  the  Queen's  shoulder.}  Poor  sailor-boy!  Is  he  so  soon 
forgotten? 

THE  QUEEN 

[With  a  start.}  No,  never!  [Firmly]  I  love  him !  [Then, 
in  a  different  tone,  as  she  slips  the  ring  on  her  finger.}  But  I 
will  behold  this  King  —  [The  curtain  falls.} 


SCENE  X 

The  Queen's  garden.  A  great  flight  of  marble  stairs  leads  to 
the  palace  door.  On  these  stairs,  in  glittering  display,  is 
ranged  the  Queen's  Court.  The  King's  Herald,  attended 
by  his  trumpeters  and  musicians,  has  just  entered  and 
stands  facing  the  palace. 

THE  KING'S  HERALD 

The  King  of  the  Blue  Mountains  and  the  Silver  Snows, 
The  Prince  of  the  Sunset  and  the  Western  Isles,  The  Com 
mander  of  the  Cohorts  of  the  Blest,  The  Lord  of  Two 
Oceans  and  the  Lands  that  Lie  Between,  God's  Regent, 
and  The  Sultan  of  the  Stars  forthwith  desires,  in  all 
solemnity,  the  Queen  of  Southland's  license  to  draw  nigh. 
[His  trumpeters  salute.  Those  of  the  Queen  respond.] 

THE  QUEEN'S  HERALD 

[From  the  stairs]  The  Queen  of  Southland  and  the 
Strands  of  Gold,  The  Anointed  Nightingale  of  Heavenly 
Grace,  The  Horn  of  the  New  Moon,  Pride  of  the  Powers  of 
Light,  The  Holy  Serpent  of  the  Southern  Sea,  The  Flower 
of  Fire,  The  Daughter  of  the  Sun  awaits  with  joy  the  com 
ing  of  the  King.  [He  descends  the  stairs.  The  musicians 
begin  to  play  and  the  King's  retinue  enter.  It  is  a  picturesque 
procession  —  his  guards,  his  sailors,  his  companions  and,  at 
the  end,  he  himself  in  his  golden  armour,  his  crown  on  his 
bowed  head,  his  long  train  carried  by  Swanhild] 

205 


206  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  VIZIER 

[Advancing  to  greet  him.]  Welcome,  O  King!  Welcome, 
O  Royal  Conqueror  from  beyond  the  seas!  All  hail,  O 
War  Lord  of  the  Western  Hosts !  Southland  acclaims  you. 
Her  groves,  her  valleys,  and  her  vines  acclaim  you.  Her 
hills  shake  with  the  thunder  of  your  name.  Give  her 
strength,  O  King!  Bless  her,  save  her,  feed  her  forever, 
and  may  the  fruit  of  your  body  sit  upon  her  throne ! 

[From  within  the  palace  comes  the  stroke  of  a  great  gong. 
There  is  another  fanfare  on  the  trumpets.] 

THE  QUEEN'S  HERALD 

[Announcing.]  The  Queen!  Her  Sacred  Majesty!  The 
Queen!  [All,  save  the  King  and  Swanhild,  fall  on  their 
knees.  From  within  is  heard  the  sound  of  distant  music  and 
girls'  voices,  gradually  growing  nearer.] 

THE  GIRLS 

[Within.]    A  voice  in  the  wind  that  blows 

From  the  land  beyond  the  sea 
Has  sung  to  every  rose 
The  song  it  sings  to  me  — 

[The  King,  who  has  turned  away,  slowly  raises  his  head 
and  listens.  Swanhild  watches  him.  From  out  of  the  palace 
run  little  children,  carrying  baskets  of  flowers.  The  maids-of- 
honor,  hand  in  hand,  follow  after,  singing  as  they  come.] 

To  the  white  rose  on  my  breast , 

To  the  butterflies  and  bees, 
To  the  little  birds  that  nest 

Among  the  apple-trees  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  207 

[The  Queen  appears  at  the  palace  door,  wearing  the  jewels 
and  veils  and  robes  of  state.  She  carries  a  great  mass  of 
flowers.  She  is  very  white  and  still.  Her  look  is  on  the 
ground.  She  comes  slowly  to  the  head  of  the  stairs.  Then,  at 
last,  she  raises  her  eyes  and  for  the  first  time  sees  the  King. 
The  blossoms  fall  from  her  arms.  They  gaze  at  one  another.} 

THE  KING 

[Whispering]  Is  this  a  dream?  Then,  God,  let  me  dream 
on! 

SWANHILD 

Give  me  your  hand.  [She  leads  him  up  the  stairs  and, 
taking  a  hand  of  the  Queen,  puts  it  in  his.} 

THE  KING 
[Hoarsely,  as  he  falls  on  his  knees.]  White  Bird  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Half -laughing,  half-crying  as  she  drops  into  his  arms] 
My  sailor-boy! 

THE  GIRLS 

\Singing]  "I  bring  you  joy  and  sorrow, 

Rain  and  sunshine,  everything  — 
/  shall  have  fled  tomorrow  — 
/  am  Love!    I  am  Spring!" 

[And,  as  they  sing,  Swanhild,  who  stands  above  the  kneel 
ing  couple,  turns  and  smiles  at  the  distant  sea.  The  curtain 
falls.} 


SCENE  XI 

The  bridal  ship.  Along  the  back  runs  the  low  gunwale  — 
beyond  is  the  open  sea.  At  the  right,  stairs  lead  to  the  high, 
old-fashioned  poop.  On  this  is  a  purple  tent.  At  the  left, 
a  few  steps  lead  to  the  prow.  On  this  is  the  mast  —  before 
it  is  the  steersman's  wheel.  The  whole  ship  is  in  festival 
attire.  Stretched  from  the  cross-yards  of  the  mast,  to  the 
poop  are  long  festoons  of  flowers ,  from  which  hang  lanterns 
of  warmly-colored  silk.  They  glow  like  great  golden  oranges 
against  the  night-sky  and  the  stars.  On  the  deck  be 
neath  —  which  is  spread  with  carpets,  cushions  and  great 
silken  mats  —  there  is  a  slightly  raised  dais  running  along 
the  gunwale  at  back.  On  this  is  a  long  narrow  table,  cov 
ered  with  damask,  draped  with  garlands,  loaded  with 
pyramids  of  fruit,  great  golden  plates,  candelabra,  goblets, 
and  pitchers  of  wine. 

Side  by  side,  at  the  centre  of  this  table,  against  a  background 
of  the  night  and  stars,  sit  the  King  and  Queen.  His  com 
panions  and  her  maids-of-honor  sit  with  them.  They  are 
all  flushed  and  radiant  and  crowned  with  roses.  The  warm 
light  of  the  lamps  above  falls  on  their  happy  faces.  —  Black 
slaves  move  to  and  fro,  with  dishes.  On  the  forward  deck, 
sitting  on  the  stairs,  etc.,  are  the  sailors  and  attendants, 
watching  the  feast.  Musicians  are  stationed  on  the  poop. 
The  Steersman  is  at  the  wheel.  Swanhild,  —  still  dressed 
as  a  boy,  but  in  silvery  splendor,  —  stands  behind  the 
King's  chair,  serving  her  master  and  mistress.  Other  pages 
serve  the  girls  and  young  men. 
208 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  209 

As  the  curtain  rises  a  young  sailor,  standing  on  the  poop 
above,  is  finishing  a  love-song.  Everyone  is  listening  to 
him.  The  King's  arm  is  about  the  Queen,  her  head  is  on  his 
shoulder.  Some  of  the  other  young  people  have  clasped 
hands.  Even  the  slaves  are  crouched  and  still. 


THE  YOUNG  SAILOR 

[Singing]    High  as  the  stars  above, 
Deep  as  the  sea  below, 
Wide  as  the  world  is  love  — 
/  love  you  sot 

[As  the  song  dies  away  there  is  a  general  movement.  Slaves 
run  forward  carrying  a  great  platter  on  which  is  a  boar's  head. 
Swanhild  takes  it  from  them  and  presents  it  to  the  King  and 
Queen  who  serve  themselves.  Then  it  is  passed  to  the  rest. 
Meanwhile:} 

THE  KING 

[To  the  young  sailor]  Friend,  where  did  you  learn  that 
song? 

THE  YOUNG  SAILOR 
I  have  forgotten,  sire.    From  some  girl  —  long  ago  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Wiping  her  eyes.]  Poor  girl!  [Turning.]  A  cup  of  wine, 
Swanhild.  [Swanhild  pours  it  out]  You  have  made  me 
weep.  [Offering  him  the  goblet  with  a  smile]  Here  —  take 
this  as  reward ! 

THE  YOUNG  SAILOR 
[Bowing  as  he  accepts  it]  Your  Majesty  — 


210  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 

A  pledge!  A  pledge!  What  am  I  thinking  of?  [To 
Swanhild.]  Quick,  child!  Fill  up  my  goblet!  [To  the 
slaves.]  Go  —  fetch  a  cask  of  red  wine!  Broach  it  for  the 
crew! 

THE  SAILORS 

Red  wine!  Do  you  hear  that,  mates?  A  cask  of  wine! 
Red  wine!  Hurrah!  Hurrah!  God  bless  Your  Majesty! 
[One  or  two  dance  a  few  steps  in  sheer  delight.  Meanwhile 
Swanhild  and  the  other  pages  have  filled  the  cups  of  the  King 
and  his  guests.  The  slaves  have  run  across  the  deck,  carrying 
the  cask,  and  have  given  it  to  the  sailors,  assembled  on  the 
fore-deck.] 

THE  KING 

[Rising,  his  cup  in  hand] 

I  have  wept  the  night  through  to  smile  at  break  of  day, 
After  snows  of  winter,  the  miracle  of  May. 
After  storm,  the  rainbow  and  after  strife,  the  prize  — 
The  journey  is  a  long  one  that  ends  in  Paradise. 

[Turning  to  the  Queen] 

0  sun!    O  spring!    0  rainbow!    You  are  by  my  side, 
And  I  pledge  an  angel,  when  I  pledge  my  bride! 

[He  empties  his  cup .   A cclamations .   A II  rise] 

THE  SAILORS 

[On  the  forward  deck]  Good!  Good!  There's  a  tongue 
for  you!  My  turn,  mate!  Here,  give  me  a  pull!  So-ho! 
God  save  her  Majesty!  [They  drink  and  shove  among  them 
selves] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  211 

VALENTINE 

To  the  loveliest  rose  that  ever  bloomed  this  side  of  Fairy 
land! 

THE  OTHER  YOUNG  MEN 
[Shouting.]  Hail!    Hail!    Drink  deep!    [They  drink.] 

ISOTTA 

[Mischievously.]  To  the  Queen  who  stooped  to  wed  a 
sailor-boy! 

THE  GIRLS  AND  YOUNG  MEN 

[Laughing  and  shouting.]  A  hit!  A  hit!  Fie!  Shame! 
How  dare  you?  Look!  She  is  blushing!  Who  was  it? 
Isotta?  Quick  —  box  her  ears! 

THE  KING 

[Laughingly  to  Swanhild.]  Come,  little  Swanhild  —  you 
must  pledge  her,  too. 

SWANHILD 
I  have  no  cup. 

THE  KING 

[Gaily.]  Take  mine.  [Holding  up  his  hand  to  silence  the 
laughter  and  shouts  of  the  others]  Hush!  All  of  you!  My 
little  page  drinks  to  the  Queen.  [There  is  silence.] 

SWANHILD 

[Rather  shyly.]  Dear  lady  —  and  you,  dear  lord  —  I  — 
I  hope  you  will  be  happy  all  your  lives  and  —  and  when 
you  die  may  your  two  souls  fly  up  to  God's  bright  garden 
and  dwell  forever  in  the  sunlight  of  His  smile.  [She  drinks 
amid  kindly  applause.] 


212  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 

[Smiling  and  clapping  his  hands.]  Well  said,  my  child  — 
well  said! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Affectionately.]  Dear  little  friend  —  [Swanhild  respect 
fully  kisses  her  outstretched  hand.]  Because  you  are  my 
friend  now,  are  you  not? 

SWANHILD 
Yes,  madam. 

THE  QUEEN 

Then  tell  me  something  —  answer  the  riddle  that  has 
puzzled  me  all  day. 

SWANHILD 
What  is  it,  madam? 

THE  QUEEN 

How  did  you  know  I  was  the  girl  who  found  him  half- 
drowned  on  the  Holy  Isle? 

SWANHILD 

[Terrified.]  How  did  I  —  Madam,  your  cup  is  empty. 
Let  me  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Detaining  her.]  Wait!  You  shall  not  go  till  you  have 
answered. 

SWANHILD 
Madam,  I  beg  you  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  213 

THE  QUEEN 

You  will  not  tell  me?  [To  the  King.]  Ah,  dearest,  make 
her  speak! 

THE  KING 

[Turning  to  Swanhild.]  Yes,  child.  How  did  you  know 
that  she  was  —  she?  Had  you  met  her?  Had  you  seen 
her  before?  You  never  told  me.  Come!  Confess! 

SWANHILD 

[Palely.]  Wait  till  tomorrow,  lord.  I  —  I  will  tell  you 
then. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Smiling.]  Is  it  a  promise? 

SWANHILD 

[Smiling  back  at  her.]  Yes,  madam.  That  is  —  if  I  still 
am  here. 

THE  KING 

Here?    Where  should  you  be  if  not  here? 

SWANHILD 

[With  a  terrified  look  over  her  shoulder.]  Oh,  I  am  afraid  — 
I  am  afraid  — 

THE  KING 

[Surprised.]  Of  what,  my  dear? 

THE  QUEEN 

[Sympathetically.]  There  —  there !  I  understand.  It  is 
the  sea.  She  has  not  sailed  upon  it  much.  It  is  so  big  and 


2i4  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

strange  and  black  —  do  I  not  know?    I  always  was  afraid 
of  it  at  night!    Why,  I  remember  once  I  — 

SWANHILD 

[Interrupting.]  No,  it  is  not  that!  How  could  I  fear  the 
sea?  [More  and  more  terrified.}  But  there  are  things  lying 
hidden  in  its  caves  —  cold,  slimy  things  that  crawl  and 
beckon  —  and  one  is  following  behind  this  ship  —  her 
wicked  eyes  are  down  there  in  the  water  —  she  wants  me  — 
she  is  waiting  for  the  dawn  —  [Clinging  to  the  King.}  Oh, 
save  me,  lord!  Oh,  do  not  let  me  go! 

THE  KING 

[Soothing  her}  You  foolish  child!  What  rascal  has  been 
spinning  you  his  yarns?  True,  there  are  mermaids,  as  all 
sailors  know  —  strange  demons  with  long  tails  and  crystal 
breasts  and  pearls  for  eyes.  But  it  is  men  alone  whose 
blood  they  long  for  —  whom  they  drag  down  to  their  silver 
caverns  and  their  galleries  of  coral.  They  do  not  care  for 
little  maidens,  child,  like  you  —  you  are  too  sweet  for 
them!  [Stroking  her  cheek.]  There!  Now  are  you  satisfied? 

SWANHILD 
Yes,  lord. 

THE  KING 
You  are  not  frightened  any  more? 

SWANHILD 
No,  lord. 

THE  KING 
[Lightly.]  Brave  child!  Then  kiss  me  —  [She  obeys.]  So! 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  215 

[He  claps  his  hands  and  calls.]  Come,  let  us  finish!  What 
have  we  now?  [The  slaves  run  forward,  carrying  a  peacock 
roasted  whole,  with  tail  outspread.  There  is  a  chorus  of  ad 
miration  from  the  guests.] 

THE  QUEEN 

[With  a  sigh.]  Ah  me!  [She  pauses,  gazing  above  her, 
then  takes  the  King's  hand.}  Dearest.  Look  up  at  the  sky. 
[He  does  so.]  It  is  so  beautiful!  Why  has  it  never  seemed 
so  beautiful  before? 

THE  KING 

[Softly.]  Do  you  not  know?  [She  nestles  against  his 
shoulder.] 

THE  QUEEN 

If  I  were  to  die  tonight,  I  do  not  think  I  could  be  very 
sad.  [She  points  above  her.]  I  have  seen  this.  I  have  loved 
you,  dear.  What  is  there  more? 

THE  KING 
[Kissing  her.]  Beloved! 

THE  QUEEN 

[Dreamily.]  See  how  the  stars  are  glittering  and  trem 
bling!  They  are  like  eyes  full  of  tears  that  never  fall. 
[Very  softly.]  Perhaps  God  remembers  it  is  our  wedding- 
night  and  has  told  them  to  shine  a  little  brighter  for  love's 
sake. 

THE  KING 

My  own!  [She  leans  her  head  back  on  his  shoulder,  still 
gazing  upwards.] 


216  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  QUEEN 

Millions  and  millions  —  great  and  small  —  what  are 
they,  darling?  Why  did  God  put  them  there? 

THE  KING 

[Smiling.]  Who  knows?  The  wise  men  say  that  each 
one  is  a  world  —  with  men  and  women  —  living  and  loving 
like  ourselves.  [Suddenly  drawing  her  to  him]  Ah,  but  no 
man  on  any  star  has  loved  or  will  ever  love  as  I  love  you! 

THE  QUEEN 

I  do  not  think  that  they  are  worlds.  Sister  Ermyngarde 
told  us  they  were  little  holes  in  the  sky,  and  their  bright 
ness  is  the  light  of  Heaven  beyond. 

SWANHILD 

[Who  has  been  listening  breathlessly.}  And  will  they  al 
ways  shine  as  they  are  shining  now? 

THE  KING 
Always,  my  child. 

SWANHILD 

[Smiling  as  she  looks  up  at  the  sky.]  Wherever  I  go  I  shall 
remember  that.  Somewhere  above  me  the  stars  are  shin 
ing  and  beyond  is  Paradise!  [The  King  and  Queen  glance 
at  one  another •,  smiling  at  her  earnestness.} 

THE  KING 
Baby,  how  old  are  you? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  217 

THE  QUEEN 

[Taking  Swanhild's  hand  and  putting  it  to  her  cheek.}  Ah, 
do  not  listen  to  him,  dear.  I  understand.  [As  the  slaves 
again  run  forward]  Sherbet  and  sweetmeats  —  candied 
fruits  and  flowers  —  I  love  them  all !  [Clasping  her  hands] 
Oh,  what  a  night!  [To  the  slaves]  Quick!  Call  my 
dancing  girls  — 

THE  KING 

[Holding  up  a  sweetmeat]  Dear  heart,  do  you  see  this? 

THE  QUEEN 
A  violet  — 

THE  KING 

[Putting  it  to  her  mouth]  I  lay  it  on  Love's  altar  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Picking  up  another  sweetmeat]  Here  —  take  this  sugared 
rose  — 

THE  KING 
No  —  no  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Trying  to  feed  it  to  him]  To  pay  you  back! 

THE  KING 

[Drawing  back  his  head]  It  is  too  big  —  [They  laugh  and 
struggle  like  children.  Meanwhile  the  music  has  begun  and 
on  the  deck  before  them  circle  the  dancing  girls] 

THE  QUEEN 
[Calling  his  attention  to  them]  Look,  dear!    They  are  so 


218  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

lovely  —  as  lovely  as  white  poppies  in  the  wind.    Their 
feet  are  silver  birds. 

THE  KING 

[Watching  them.]  Ah,  but  I  have  a  little  friend  who  would 
surpass  them  all ! 

THE  QUEEN 
And  who  is  that? 

THE  KING 
[Smiling.]  She  stands  behind  your  chair. 

THE  QUEEN 
Swanhild?    Swanhild  can  dance? 

THE  KING 

[Nodding.]  Like  a  little  firefly  glimmering  in  the  night  — 
like  a  little  moonbeam  trembling  on  the  waves. 

SWANHILD 
Dear  lord  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Clapping  her  hands.]  Oh,  I  must  see  her  now!    You 
lucky  girl!    Quick  —  join  the  others! 

SWANHILD 

[Drawing  back.]  No  — 

THE  KING 

Come,  come,  dear  child!    [To  the  Queen.]  She  is  a  little 
shy. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  219 

THE  QUEEN 
For  my  sake ! 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  I  cannot  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Very  winningly]  Remember,  dear  —  it  is  my  wedding- 
night.  [A  little  pause.} 

SWANHILD 

Sweet  madam,  I  obey.  [She  joins  the  others  on  the  deck 
below.] 

THE  KING 

Dance,  little  foundling,  dance  as  you  have  never  danced 
before  —  as  if  this  were  your  last  night  upon  earth  and 
even  now  you  smelt  the  flowers  of  God! 

SWANHILD 
The  flowers  of  God  —  [Suddenly  she  reels] 

THE  KING 

[Half -rising]  Swanhild! 

THE  QUEEN 

Child! 

VALENTINE 

She  is  ill!  [The  music  has  stopped.  The  dancers  have 
gathered  round  her] 

SWANHILD 

[Pushing  them  back]  No,  it  is  nothing  —  [Calling  to  the 
musicians  in  agony]  Play  —  I  tell  you  play  —  oh,  play  — 


220  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

[They  do  so.  The  dance  begins.  Gradually,  one  by  one,  the 
other  girls  drop  out.  Swanhild  is  alone.  Her  long  hair 
loosens  and  falls  about  her,  but  she  does  not  stop.  From  the 
bows  and  stern,  the  sailors  are  setting  of  fireworks.  Rockets 
shoot  up  into  the  night,  stars  fall.  Red  and  green  fires  bathe 
the  deck  with  their  strange  radiance.  She  dances  on.  Ap 
plause  breaks  out  among  the  guests  and  sailors.  The  King 
and  the  Queen  rise  to  their  feet  —  the  others  follow.  There  are 
cries  of  enthusiasm  and  delight.} 

A  SAILOR 
[Shouting.]  Brave  lass! 

RlNALDO 

O  flame  of  fire! 

THE  KING 
She  swims  and  hovers  in  the  air  — 

THE  QUEEN 

A  sea-gull  skimming  through  the  storm  —  [She  tosses  a 
great  handful  of  rose-petals  over  Swanhild,  as,  with  a  blaze 
of  rockets,  the  dance  ends  and  the  little  page  crouches  panting 
before  her.  The  King  and  the  rest  follow  the  Queen's  example. 
Swanhild  is  covered  with  flowers} 

THE  KING 

Ah,  wonder  child!  [Giving  her  his  cup]  Here  —  drink 
this  wine.  [She  does  so.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  221 

THE  QUEEN 

[Taking  of  a  chain  of  pearls.]  Wait,  little  Swanhild! 
[She  gives  it  to  Swanhild.}  Wear  these  pearls  for  me. 

SWANHILD 
Dear  madam  —  [She  hangs  it  around  her  neck.] 

THE  KING 

[Putting  his  arm  about  the  Queen]  It  is  late.  See,  love  — 
our  candles  have  burnt  out  and  one  by  one  the  stars  slip 
back  into  the  bosom  of  the  night.  The  sky  is  grey  and  a 
little  wind  has  risen  from  the  East  —  hark!  do  you  hear? 
It  is  whispering  of  the  dawn  — 

SWANHILD 
[To  herself.]  The  dawn. 

THE  KING 

[To  the  Queen.]  I  have  waited  all  my  life  for  this  one 
moment. 

THE  QUEEN 

[Faintly.]  So,  dear,  have  I. 

THE  KING 

Give  me  your  hands.  [She  slowly  obeys.  He  draws  her 
to  him  with  sudden  passion.]  Am  I  your  flesh,  your  blood, 
your  breath,  your  heart,  your  soul? 

THE  QUEEN 
You  are  my  husband,  and  I  love  you. 


222  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  KING 

Come! 

[Meanwhile  the  girls  and  the  young  men  have  been  busily 
whispering  about  something.  Their  heads  are  together. 
There  is  an  occasional  ripple  of  laughter.  Now  the  result  of 
their  conference  is  made  clear.] 

ISOTTA 

[Pointing  to  the  King  and  Queen]  Look!  They  are 
ready  — 

ARIADNE 
Where  is  the  incense?    Quick! 

SEBASTIAN 
The  torches,  Roland  — 

ARMIDA 
You  are  treading  on  my  train  — 

BERTRAM 
Swanhild,  —  she  must  do  something,  too. 

MEDEA 
Oh,  let  her  follow  with  the  flowers. 

JASPER 

Begin  the  song !  [Thus,  as  they  laugh  and  frolic,  they  have 
formed  their  bridal  procession.  First  walk  the  King's  com 
panions,  carrying  torches;  then  the  maids-of -honor ,  swinging 
censers  to  and  fro.  Then  Swanhild,  whom  they  have  given  a 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  223 

great  armful  of  blossoms  and  pushed  into  place.    She  drops 
her  flowers  before  the  bridal  pair.} 

THE  YOUNG  MEN  AND  THE  MAIDENS 
[Singing  as  they  go.] 

Strew  the  bed  with  roses 

And  spices  of  delight, 
Clash  the  golden  cymbals  — 

Love  reigns  to-night! 

[Slowly  they  climb  the  stairs  leading  to  the  tent.] 

Above  you  in  the  Heavens 

Is  one  star  that  sings  — 
Below  and  all  about  you 

The  beating  of  wings. 

[The  girls  and  young  men  pass  the  tent  and  disappear,  still 
singing.    Only  Swanhild  lingers  behind.] 
Draw  the  purple  curtains 

And  dim  the  tapers'  light, 
In  silence  and  in  darkness 
Love  reigns  to-night  — 

[The  King  and  Queen  are  about  to  enter  when  Swanhild 
speaks.] 

SWANHILD 
Madam  — 

THE  QUEEN 

[Turning    and   seeing   her.]  Yes,    child  —  what   is   it? 
[Swanhild  silently  holds  out  a  rose.]  For  me?    [She  takes  it.] 

SWANHILD 
It  was  the  loveliest  of  them  all. 


224  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  QUEEN 

[Impulsively  taking  her  in  her  arms.]  You  blessed  inno 
cence!  [She  kisses  her.]  How  cold  your  lips  are! 

SWANHILD 

The  —  the  wine  was  cold.    Good-night,  dear  madam. 

THE  QUEEN 
[Going  to  the  curtains.]  Good-night,  little  sister. 

SWANHILD 

[Smiling.]  The  sweetest  of  all  sweet  dreams  and  golden 
days  to  come.  [The  Queen  disappears  within  the  tent.] 

THE  KING 

[Holding  out  his  hands  to  her.]  My  own  dear  child!  [She 
kneels  and  kisses  them.] 

SWANHILD 
Do  not  forget  me,  lord,  in  your  great  happiness. 

THE  KING 

How  could  I,  dear,  when  you  have  given  it  to  me? 
[Suddenly.]  Why,  you  are  shaking!  You  are  spent  and 
weary.  Go !  follow  the  maidens  —  you  must  rest  and 
sleep. 

SWANHILD 

Lord,  may  I  not  sleep  —  as  I  used  to  —  here  at  your 
door?  [He  hesitates,  glancing  within  the  curtains.]  It  is  for 
the  last  time.  I  beg  you,  lord  —  do  not  turn  me  away  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  225 

THE  KING 

So  be  it  then.  But  wait  —  the  dawn  is  cool.  Put  on  my 
robe.  [He  lays  it  about  her  shoulders.} 

SWANHILD 

[Smiling  up  at  him.}  Again,  lord.    Do  you  remember? 

THE  KING 

[Very  tenderly}  Little  lost  mariner  —  [He  bends  and 
kisses  her  forehead}  Good-night.  [He  goes  to  the  tent} 

SWANHILD 

[Still  kneeling}  Good-bye. 

[As  the  curtains  fall  behind  him,  she  silently  throws  up  her 
hands  and  drops  face-down  upon  the  ground.  She  lies  there 
motionless ,  broken  by  horror  and  despair. 

Meanwhile  the  sailors  have  been  at  work  preparing  the 
ship  for  the  night.  Softly  humming  their  old  chanty,  they  have 
taken  down  the  lamps  and  the  decorations,  cleared  the  table, 
removed  it,  and  made  everything  ship-shape} 

A  SAILOR 
[Singing  to  himself} 

Oh,  when  we  sailed  I  had  no  son 
As  far  as  I  could  see  — 

THE  STEERSMAN 
jjere  —  set  the  jibs!    Haul  out  the  sheet  to  starboard! 


226  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  SAILORS 
Ay,  ay,  sir.    [Singing.] 

But  now  Pm  home  and  the  voyage  is  done 
I  find  that  I  have  three  — 

THE  STEERSMAN 

That  will  do  the  mainsail!    Jump  forward  —  quick,  you 
lubbers!    Brace  the  yards! 

A  SAILOR 
Here,  you  —  catch  hold ! 

ANOTHER 

Easy,  mates  —  easy !    [A s  they  work  the  ropes.]  There  she 
goes! 

OTHER  SAILORS 

[Singing.]    Sing  hey!    Sing  ho! 

Sing  loud  as  ever  you  can 
There's  a  bowl  of  wine  — 

THE  STEERSMAN 
Ssh!    Be  quiet,  you  fools! 

THE  SAILORS 

Ay,  ay,  sir!    [Finishing  very  softly.] 

beyond  the  brine 

And  a  kiss  for  every  man! 

[Their  work  is  done.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  227 

THE  STEERSMAN 
Whose  watch  is  it? 

THE  SAILORS 

Not  mine,  sir.  I  watched  last  night,  sir.  [Pushing  for 
ward  an  old  sailor.]  Here,  Thomas!  Come  on,  you  swob! 
It  is  Thomas's  turn,  sir!  Here  he  is,  sir! 

THE  STEERSMAN 

Your  watch,  my  man?  [The  yawning  sailors  begin  to  curl 
up  in  the  corners  of  the  deck] 

THOMAS 

Ay,  sir,  but  I  be  fair  sleepy.  'Tis  the  wine,  sir  —  I  do  be 
thinking. 

THE  STEERSMAN 
I'll  take  your  turn  and  wake  you  at  break  of  day.   Be  off ! 

THOMAS 

Why,  thankee,  sir.  [He  lies  down  by  a  coil  of  rope  and  is 
soon  fast  asleep.] 

THE  STEERSMAN 
[To  the  sailor  at  the  wheel]  Give  me  the  helm. 

THE  SAILOR 
It  is  time  —  my  head  is  nodding  — 

THE  STEERSMAN 
How  do  we  lie? 


228  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  SAILOR 

North  to  north-east  —  as  steady  as  the  stars.  The  com 
pass  points  to  —  [Suddenly  breaking  off  and  pointing  out  to 
sea.}  Oh,  hark,  sir!  Listen  —  !  Do  you  hear  it? 

THE  STEERSMAN 
Hear  what? 

THE  SAILOR 

It  sounds  —  it  sounds  like  the  tolling  of  a  great  bell  — 
down  there  in  the  sea  —  [They  both  listen.} 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[Kindly}  Come!  You  are  tired  of  watching.  Go  to 
sleep. 

THE  SAILOR 

[Shaken.}  I  will,  sir.    I  need  sleep.    Good-night. 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[At  the  helm}  Good-night. 

[The  sailor  disappears.  The  deck  is  strewn  with  still,  dark 
forms.  The  ship  is  very  quiet.  Over  the  sea  the  sky  is  grey 
and  cold.  Only  the  largest  and  brightest  stars  remain.  It  is 
the  silence  that  precedes  the  dawn.  At  the  helm  the  Steers 
man  yawns.  His  head  droops,  straightens,  droops  again. 
His  eyes  close.  He  sleeps. 

Then,  from  far  over  the  waters,  comes  the  sound  of  singing 
voices,  strange  and  sweet.] 

THE  VOICES 

Mermaid,  mermaid,  come  with  me, 
Night  has  fallen  —  you  are  free  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  229 

[Outside  the  bridal  tent,  Swanhild  lifts  her  head  and  listens.] 

All  the  glories  of  the  sea 

Are  yours  if  you  will  follow  me  — 

[Swanhild  rises  very  softly  and  comes  down  the  stairs.  On 
the  deck  she  stands  amid  the  sleeping  sailors,  listening.  The 
voices  sing  on.] 

Stars  are  glimmering. 

Sea-fire  shimmering, 

Plunging,  diving  through  the  spray  — 

[The  Steersman  stirs  drowsily  and  opens  his  eyes.] 
White  arms  gleaming, 
Long  hair  streaming  — 

[He  hears  and  listens.] 

Over  the  waves  and  far  away  — 

[He  turns  suddenly  and  looks  out  to  sea.] 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[With  a  choked  cry.]  A-ah!  [He  drops  the  wheel  and  covers 
his  face  with  his  hands.]  Christ  have  mercy  —  [The  song 
dies  away.  Swanhild,  who  has  glided  up  to  him,  lays  a  soft 
hand  on  his  shoulder.  He  starts  in  terror.]  Who's  that? 

SWANHILD 
I. 

THE  STEERSMAN 

Do  you  see  them? 

SWANHILD 

See  whom? 


230  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[Shuddering.]  Witches  and  devils  —  out  there  in  the 
waves. 

SWANHILD 

I  see  two  dolphins  leaping  —  that  is  all. 

THE  STEERSMAN 
You  did  not  hear  —  a  song? 

SWANHILD 
When? 

THE  STEERSMAN 

Hark!    [They  listen.] 

SWANHILD 
It  is  the  wind  that  whistles  through  the  shrouds. 

THE  STEERSMAN 
I  could  have  sworn  I  saw  two  faces  in  the  foam. 

SWANHILD 
You  dreamed. 

THE  STEERSMAN 

Pray  Heaven  I  did!    They  only  come  when  some  poor 
soul  must  die. 

SWANHILD 

Look  and  be  satisfied. 

% 

THE  STEERSMAN 
I  am  afraid  — 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  231 

SWANHILD 

You  must  —  [He  turns  his  head  towards  the  sea]  There! 
Now  are  you  content? 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[Turning  to  the  wheel  and  crossing  himself]  God  save  us 
all. 

SWANHILD 
I  wish  He  could. 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[Yawning]  What's  that? 

SWANHILD 
Nothing.    Good-night. 

THE  STEERSMAN 

[Drowsily]  Good-night.  No  doubt  it  was  the  wine  — 
[He  yawns  again]  The  wine  I  drank  —  the  wine  —  that  — 
that  —  [His  voice  trails  of.  His  head  falls.  He  sleeps.] 

THE  VOICES 
[Very  sweet  and  near.] 

Mermaid,  mermaid,  come  with  me, 
Night  has  fallen,  you  are  free  — 

SWANHILD 

[Leaning  over  the  gunwale  and  calling  softly]  Sisters! 
Sisters,  are  you  there? 


232  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THE  VOICES 
[Just  beneath  the  ship] 

All  the  glories  of  the  sea 
Are  yours  — 

SWANHILD 

[Half -mad  with  excitement  and  delight]  Thora!     Lona! 

THE  VOICES 
Swanhild!    Swanhild! 

SWANHILD 
[Trembling  and  laughing]  You  have  not  forgotten  me? 

THE  VOICES 
Never,  little  sister!    Never  —  oh,  never! 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  come  up  here  where  I  can  touch  you  and  kiss  you! 

THE  VOICES 
No  —  no!    We  cannot!    We  are  afraid  of  the  men. 

SWANHILD 
But  they  are  asleep,  I  tell  you  —  I  am  all  alone. 

THE  VOICES 
Are  you  sure,  little  sister?    Will  nobody  see  us? 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  233 

SWANHILD 

No  one,  I  swear  it.  So  wait  for  a  big  wave  —  then  catch 
hold  my  hand.  [Leaning  over  the  gunwale.}  Look!  There 
it  comes  —  now,  Thora,  now!  [There  is  a  pause,  a  gurgle.] 
So!  There  you  are!  [And,  as  she  speaks,  Thora  appears, 
perched  on  the  gunwale,  wet  and  white  and  dripping  in  the 
strange  twilight.] 

THORA 

[Wailing.]  Oh,  it  is  true  —  it  is  true!  You  are  a  human 
being  — 

SWANHILD 

[Pointing  to  the  sailors.}  Ssh!  You  will  wake  them! 
[Leaning  out  again.}  Here  comes  the  wave!  Quick  —  help 
me  with  Lona  —  [And  in  a  moment  Lona  appears  beside  her 
sister,  sitting  on  the  gunwale] 

SWANHILD 

At  last!  At  last!  [And  gasping  and  desperate,  full  of 
little  inarticulate  murmurs  and  cries,  they  are  suddenly  all 
three  in  each  other's  arms.] 

SWANHILD 

[Smothered]  My  sweethearts  —  my  precious  — 

THORA  AND  LONA 
Oh,  my  shrimp  —  little  tadpole  — 

SWANHILD 

[Intoxicated]  Your  cheeks  are  cold  and  your  kisses  are 
salt !  Let  me  smell  you  and  taste  you  —  you  come  from 
the  sea! 


234  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THORA  AND  LONA 

Little  frog!  Little  clam!  Oh,  minnow  of  mine!  [They 
cling  to  each  other  in  a  terrible  embrace.] 

LONA 

Oh,  Thora,  look!  There  are  two  little  pools  of  water  in 
her  eyes! 

THORA 

There  are  two  little  rivers  running  down  her  face! 

LONA 
[Touching  Swanhild's  cheeks.]  They  are  hot  — 

THORA 
They  are  hurting  her  — 

THORA  AND  LONA 

Oh,  Swanhild!  Little  angel-fish!  What  is  it?  What  is 
it? 

SWANHILD 

[Brokenly]  Nothing.  Just  something  foolish  that 
women  do  when  they  are  happy.  Oh,  talk  to  me  — 
tell  me  —  how  is  daddy?  and  grandmummy,  too?  Have 
they  forgiven  me?  Have  they  missed  me?  And  my  gar 
den?  My  statue?  My  dear  little  fish?  Do  you  feed  them 
well?  Do  they  come  to  my  window?  [And,  as  she  speaks, 
she  strokes  their  green  tails  and  their  wet  white  arms]  Lona  — 
Thora !  You  do  not  answer.  How  pale  you  are !  —  or  is 
it  the  grey  light?  [She  peers  into  their  faces]  No,  you  are 
changed  —  what  is  it?  [Suddenly]  Oh,  your  hair  —  your 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  235 

hair!     What  have  you  done  with  your  beautiful  long 
hair? 

THORA 

We  have  sold  it  to  the  Sea  Witch,  so  that  we  may  help 
you,  little  sister,  and  save  you  from  your  fate. 

LONA 

Look!    She  has  given  us  a  knife.     [Offering  it  to  Swan- 
hild.}  Here!    Feel  how  sharp  it  is ! 

THORA 

Before  the  sun  rises,  you  must  plunge  it  in  the  young 
King's  heart  — 

SWANHILD 

[With  a  cry]  What  —  ? 

LONA 
Ssh!    Listen,  my  tadpole  —  listen  while  there  is  time! 

THORA 

When  his  red  blood  spurts  upon  those  hideous  feet,  they 
will  join  together  and  turn  into  a  tail. 

LONA 
And  oh!  then  once  more  you  will  be  a  mermaid  — 

THORA 

And  dive  into  the  waves  and  live  three  hundred  glorious 
years  before  you  turn  into  the  white  sea-foam. 


236  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

LONA 

[Impatiently,  holding  out  the  knife.]  Oh,  take  it  —  take 
it!    Do  you  not  see  that  red  cloud  in  the  East? 

THORA 
The  sun  is  rising. 

LONA 
The  Witch  is  waiting. 

THORA 
Kill  him  — 

LONA 
Kill  him  — 

THORA 

Come  back  to  us  again ! 

SWANHILD 
[With  horror.]  No  —  no  — 

LONA 
But  think  of  the  doom  that  waits  for  you  down  there ! 

THORA 

The    cave  —  the    bones  —  the    snakes  — the    hungry 
tree  — 

SWANHILD 
Stop!    Stop! 

LONA 

Ah,  darling,  think  of  yourself  —  forget  the  King. 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  237 

SWANHILD 

[Wildly.]  Forget?    How  can  I? 

THORA 

Are  there  not  others  whom  you  have  forgotten?  Father 
and  grandmother  —  what  of  them,  little  sister? 

SWANHILD 
Please  — 

LONA 

They  have  grown  so  old  since  you  went  away.  Every 
morning  they  swim  out  to  their  thrones,  and  sit  the  whole 
day  looking  up  through  the  water,  waiting  and  watching 
for  your  return. 

SWANHILD 

[Eagerly.]  Oh,  do  they? 

LONA 

And  all  night  long  they  keep  a  periwinkle  shining  in  your 
window  and  the  great  bell  ringing  —  hark!  do  you  hear  it, 
dear?  It  is  ringing  to  guide  you  home. 

SWANHILD 
Home  —  ! 

THORA 

Ah,  darling,  you  have  been  asleep  and  dreaming  the 
sweetest  dreams  in  all  the  world. 

LONA 

But  they  are  only  dreams  —  a  soul,  a  God,  eternity  — 
only  the  radiant  fancies  of  your  baby  mind. 


238  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

THORA 

Lies  —  lovely  lies  that  have  led  you  star-eyed  to  destruc 
tion. 

SWANHILD 
Oh,  Thora  —  Lona  —  have  mercy  —  go  away  — 

LONA 

The  day  is  deepening! 

THORA 
Come! 

SWANHILD 
[Beside  herself.]  Oh,  God  —  please  help  me! 

LONA 
What?    God  listen  to  a  little  mermaid? 

THORA 
A  creature  that  was  born  without  a  soul? 

SWANHILD 
He  would  —  my  dear  lord  said  He  would  — 


THORA 
Her  lord? 

LONA 
Her  dear  lord! 


[Looking  at  each 
other.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  239 

THORA 
[Bitterly.]  Fool,  he  was  mocking  you! 

LONA 

You  are  his  butt  — 

THORA 
His  laughing-stock  — 

LONA 

A  wretched  joke  of  which  he  has  grown  tired! 

SWANHILD 
[Shrinking.]  No  —  no  — 

THORA 
[Seizing  her.]  A  broken  toy!    A  trumpery  little  doll  — 

LONA 
A  thing  that  capers  as  he  drinks  his  wine  — 

SWANHILD 

[With  the  savage  cry  of  the  outraged  goddess  whose  love  is 
scorned  by  a  mortal.]  Ah!    Ah  —  ! 

LONA 

[Half -terrified,    half -exulting.]  Oh,    Thora,    look!     Her 
eyes  —  they  are  green  again! 

THORA 

There  is  blood  and  foam  on  her  mouth.     Swanhild! 
Little  sister! 


24o  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

Give  me  the  knife. 

LONA 
[As  they  press  it  upon  her.]  Here,  little  sword-fish. 

THORA 
Take  it. 

LONA 
Hold  it  firm. 

THORA 
[Releasing  her.]  Strike  deep,  little  sister. 

LONA 
One  blow  — 

THORA 

And  you  are  free!  [And,  as  they  speak,  they  slip  over  the 
side  of  the  ship  and  disappear  into  the  water. 

The  eastern  sky  is  red  with  the  splendor  of  the  daybreak. 
Swanhild  slowly  crosses  the  deck,  the  knife  in  her  hand.  She 
climbs  the  stairs.  She  draws  open  the  long  curtains  that  sur 
round  the  bridal  bed.  The  rosy  light  of  morning  fills  the  tent. 
The  King  and  Queen  are  sleeping  in  one  another's  arms. 
She  stands  above  the  bed  and  looks  at  them.] 

THE  VOICES  OF  THORA  AND  LONA 

[From  the  sea.]  Strike,  little  sister!    Strike  —  oh,  strike! 

[Swanhild  raises  the  knife.  The  King  stirs  in  his  sleep, 
smiles,  and,  with  a  murmured  word,  nestles  his  head  down  on 
the  Queen's  shoulder  like  a  tired  child.] 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  241 

SWANHILD 

[Her  hand  dropping.]  I  cannot  — 

THORA  AND  LONA 
[In  agony.]  Oh! 

SWANHILD 

[Transfigured.]  You  said  eternity,  the  soul  and  God  were 
lies.  It  is  not  true.  They  live  —  I  have  found  them  — 
they  are  mine  at  last!  Each  one  is  but  another  name  for 
love,  and  when  we  love  we  are  in  Paradise!  Take  back 
your  knife.  [Throwing  it  into  the  sea.}  I  do  not  need  it 
now  — 

THORA  AND  LONA 

[Wailing.]  Sister —  !  What  have  you  done!  Hark  — 
hark!  Do  you  hear?  [And  from  far  away  is  heard  the 
triumphant  laughter  of  the  Witch.] 

SWANHILD 

I  hear.  I  am  content.  For  come  what  may,  I  hold  all 
Heaven  in  my  heart. 

THORA  AND  LONA 

[With  a  strange  cry.]  Good-bye,  little  sister  —  good 
bye  —  good-bye  —  [Their  voices  die  away.] 

THE  WITCH'S  VOICE 

[From  the  depths  of  the  sea.]  Little  mermaid!  Little  mer 
maid  !  Where  are  you? 


242  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

SWANHILD 

[Facing  the  voice.}  Here,  O  Sea  Witch!  I  am  ready  —  I 
greet  you!  [Under  the  surface  of  the  water,  -vaguely  at  first 
and  far  away,  the  Witch  appears.  Her  toads  surround  her. 
Her  eyes  are  on  Swanhild.  She  is  smiling  and  beckoning.] 

THE  WITCH 

[Her  terrible,  cracked  -voice  coming  up  faintly  through  the 
sea.]  Poor  little  princess!  You  failed  —  it  is  finished  and 
over.  [Swanhild  has  turned  to  the  bridal  bed.  She  is 
softly  arranging  the  embroidered  coverlet  —  drawing  it  over 
the  King's  shoulders  and  tucking  it  in.  Then  she  kneels  and 
kisses  him  lightly  on  the  forehead] 

SWANHILD 
[Whispering.]  My  own  dear  lord  — 

THE  WITCH 

[Every  moment  growing  more  visible]  Leave  the  young 
King.  He  will  not  help  you  now.  You  are  lost  —  you 
cannot  escape  —  you  belong  to  me.  Look  at  my  chicks  — 
they  are  eager  to  welcome  you,  darling  —  to  tumble  and 
play  with  you  over  a  bone  —  ho-ho !  —  a  fine  breast-bone 
that  I  dropped  last  night  on  the  floor!  [But  Swanhild 
is  not  looking  at  her.  Her  anxious  eyes  are  fixed  far  off, 
on  the  horizon.  She  is  wailing  for  the  sunrise,  and  now  at 
last  it  comes.  The  first  long  level  beam  of  light  shoots  out 
across  the  sea  and  strikes  her  face.  She  smiles  and  stretches 
out  her  hands] 

SWANHILD 

Oh,  beautiful  sun,  whom  I  have  loved  so  long  —  since 


THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE  243 

first  I  saw  you  from  the  bottom  of  the  sea !  I  must  go  down 
and  leave  this  man  behind.  But  oh,  dear  sun!  I  would 
not  find  it  hard  if  only  I  knew  that  you  would  bless  him 
always  —  show  him  the  right  way  —  keep  him  well  and 
strong.  So  that  when  once  more  I  see  you  like  a  red 
flower  through  the  waves,  I  can  say  —  "He  is  up  there, 
helping  my  dear  lord.  He  is  giving  him  new  strength,  new 
light,  new  glory.  He  is  shining  all  day  on  his  happiness." 
Will  you?  Then  answer!  Prove  that  you  have  heard! 
[She  has  fallen  on  her  knees.  The  sun's  ray  goes  beyond  her 
and  strikes  the  King.  She  gives  a  cry  of  joy]  Ah!  You 
have  taken  him  in  your  great  arms!  It  is  enough,  dear 
sun  —  I  understand!  Now  I  can  go!  God  bless  you, 
lord  —  good-bye!  [And  as  she  finishes,  she  leaps  into  the 
sea  and  disappears] 

THE  WITCH 

[Laughing  in  triumph  and  stretching  out  her  claw-like 
hands]  So,  little  mermaid!  You  are  mine  at  last!  Come! 
Let  me  rid  you  of  your  woman's  form  and  then  —  [Sud 
denly]  Hark!  [Far  of,  above  her,  is  heard  the  faint  sound 
of  the  seraph  choir]  What  is  that  music?  Is  it  the  singing 
of  the  morning  star?  And  louder  still  it  rolls  down  from 
the  sky.  [She  looks  up]  I  hear  —  I  see  them  now  — 
the  angels  streaming  through  the  gates  of  Heaven! 
[Wildly.]  Go  back!  You  cannot  have  her!  She  is  mine! 
Come,  little  mermaid  —  Swanhild  —  slave,  I  command 
you!  [But  sky  and  sea  have  faded  and  in  their  place 
appear  the  golden  stairs,  flooded  with  a  divine  radiance, 
lined  on  both  sides  with  an  infinite  number  of  angelic  forms] 
I  cannot  see  —  those  stairs  —  they  blind  —  they  burn  into 
my  heart!  [With  a  dreadful  cry  of  rage  and  terror]  Oh, 
save  me!  Look!  —  they  lead  to  the  Great  Throne! 


244  THE  GARDEN  OF  PARADISE 

Down!  Down,  my  children!  We  have  lost  her!  Love 
has  given  her  a  soul!  [As  she  speaks,  she  and  her  satellites 
fade,  sink,  and  are  gone. 

And  now,  at  the  foot  of  the  stairs,  Swanhild  appears.  She 
is  dressed  in  long  white  woman's  robes  that  shine  and  glitter. 
On  her  head  is  a  crown  of  stars.] 

SWANHILD 

The  Witch  is  gone  —  where  am  I?  What  has  happened? 
[Touching  her  crown  and  garments.]  Who  dressed  me  in  this 
shining  light  and  put  this  crown  of  stars  upon  my  hair? 
[Looking  about  her.]  Why,  I  am  dreaming  —  this  is  not  the 
sea !  And  all  those  lovely  people  wearing  robes  like  mine  — 
and  crowns  —  why,  they  are  angels!  Yet  they  do  not 
hate  me  —  no,  they  smile  —  they  sing  —  they  welcome 
me!  Oh,  can  it  be  —  [With  a  cry]  Yes!  Joy  of  joys! 
These  stairs  lead  up  to  Paradise!  [With  ever-increasing 
emotion]  I  smell  the  flowers.  I  hear  the  birds.  I  see  a 
Throne  and  Someone  holding  out  His  arms.  Is  it  for  me 
You  wait?  For  me  —  ?  But  I  am  just  a  little  mermaid  — 
just  a  little  creature  born  without  a  soul.  [In  sudden 
rapture]  Oh,  Lord,  forgive  me!  You  are  right!  I  am 
Your  own  dear  child!  Look!  Look!  I  run!  I  come!  Oh, 
take  me  to  Your  heart!  [And,  laughing  and  weeping  in  a 
divine  delirium,  she  mounts  to  her  reward.  The  alleluias 
and  hosannahs  of  the  angels  grow  more  distant.  The  heavenly 
vision  fades,  and  she  is  gone. 

The  sky  is  blue.  The  sea  is  calm.  The  sunlight  falls  upon 
the  sleeping  lovers.] 

THE  END 


following  pages  contain  advertisements  of 
books  by  the  same  author  or  on  kindred  subjects. 


Romance:    A  Play 


BY  EDWARD  SHELDON 
AUTHOR  OF  "THE  NIGGER,"  ETC. 

Cloth,  Frontispiece,  $1.25  net;  postage  extra 

Mr.  Sheldon  can  be  relied  upon  to  provide  drama  that  is  not  only 
good  from  a  technical  standpoint,  but  unusual  in  subject-matter. 
"The  Nigger,"  which  proved  to  be  one  of  the  sensations  of  the  New 
Theatre's  short  career,  is  now  followed  by  "Romance,"  a  play  more 
admirable,  perhaps,  in  its  construction,  and  of  universal  appeal.  As 
a  book  the  story  has  lost  none  of  its  brilliance;  in  fact,  the  sharpness 
of  its  character  delineation,  the  intensity  and  reality  of  its  plot,  and 
the  lyrical  beauty  of  some  of  its  passages  are,  if  possible,  more  ap 
parent  on  the  printed  page  than  in  the  theatre.  There  is  little  doubt 
that  the  tremendous  success  which  the  drama  made  when  foot-lighted 
is  to  be  duplicated  upon  its  appearance  in  this  form. 

"It  is  full  of  literary  flavor,  delicate  imagination  and  romantic 
truth,  and  it  is  one  of  the  plays  which  go  as  well  in  print  as  they  do 
on  the  stage,  and  vice  versa." — Syracuse  Post  Standard. 

"It  is  unique  in  its  conception,  bringing  in  two  romances  and 
two  entirely  different  periods." — Bookseller,  Newsdealer  and  Stationer. 

"Those  who  have  missed  seeing  one  of  the  most  delightful  plays 
of  recent  years  now  have  an  opportunity  to  familiarize  themselves 
with  the  dainty  sentiment,  clean  humor  and  delightful  romance  from 
whence  the  play  took  its  title." — Boston  Post. 

"An  excellent  reading  play  .  .  .  holds  the  fancy  with  the  same 
tenacity  as  a  story  that  it  did  as  a  swift  moving  scene  upon  the  stage." 
— Chicago  Daily  Tribune. 

"The  play  unites  the  setting  and  costumes  of  a  romantic  comedy 
with  the  deep  emotion  of  a  modern  problem  drama.  •  Throughout  it 
is  the  work  of  an  artist." — Continent. 

"The  play  is  moving,  dramatic,  appealing.  It  is  good  to  read,  as 
it  has  been  proved  good  to  see." — Duluth  Herald. 


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The    Nigger :      An  American  Play  in  Three  Acts 
BY  EDWARD  SHELDON 

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Price,  $1.25  net;  postage  extra 

One  of  the  most  vivid  and  thrilling  dramas  that  has  appeared  in 
recent  years.  Headers  who  did  not  see  the  play  will  welcome 
this  opportunity  to  become  acquainted  with  a  great  work,  while 
those  who  were  fortunate  enough  to  witness  a  performance  may 
revive  impressions  and  recollections  at  will  in  study  or  reading  room. 

Mr.  Sheldon,  the  well-known  author  of  the  famous  drama  "Salva 
tion  Nell,"  has  seized  in  this  play  upon  one  of  the  most  tragic  aspects 
of  the  race  question  in  the  South.  The  play  turns  upon  the  discovery 
of  the  taint  of  one  drop  of  negro  blood  in  the  veins  of  the  hero.  From 
this  springs  a  drama  of  self-sacrifice  and  heroism,  which  is  so  vivid 
in  its  realism  and  so  faithful  in  its  portrayal  of  the  relative  attitudes 
of  the  blacks  and  whites  that  the  memory  of  it  will  linger  long  after 
the  book  is  closed.  "The  Nigger"  was  one  of  the  first  plays  to  be 
produced  in  the  New  Theatre,  in  New  York,  at  which  time  the  Boston 
Transcript  said  of  it:  "'The  Nigger'  is  a  swift,  plausible,  cumulative, 
and  absorbing  dramatic  narrative  that  holds  interest  unrelaxed,  and 
awakes  answering  emotions.  .  .  .  The  author  has  keen  and  fine 
imagination  that  has  often  guided  him  truly  into  insight  in  character. 
Is  exciting  in  suspense  and  goading  in  climax." 


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Children  of  the  Earth 


BY  ALICE  BROWN 

AUTHOR   OF   "MY  LOVE  AND  I,"  ETC. 

Cloth,  i2mo,  $1.25  net 

This  is  the  ten  thousand  dollar  American  prize  play.  From  thou 
sands  of  manuscripts  submitted  to  Mr.  Ames  of  the  Little  Theatre, 
Miss  Brown's  was  chosen  as  being  the  most  notable,  both  in  theme 
and  characterization.  Miss  Brown  has  a  large  following  as  novelist 
and  short  story  writer,  and  there  is  no  doubt  but  that  her  play  will 
be  found  to  exhibit  those  rare  qualities  of  writing  and  those  keen 
analyses  of  human  motives  which  have  given  her  eminence  in  other 
forms  of  literature. 


JOHN  MASEFIELD'S  NEW  VOLUME 

Philip  the  King,  and  Other  Poems 

BY  JOHN  MASEFIELD 

AUTHOR  OF  "THE  TRAGEDY  OF  POMPEY,"  "THE  EVERLASTING  MERCY," 
"THE  DAFFODIL  FIELDS" 

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"Mr.  Masefield's  new  poetical  drama  is  a  piece  of  work  such  as 
only  the  author  of  'Nan'  and  'The  Tragedy  of  Pompey'  could  have 
written,  tense  in  situation  and  impressive  in  its  poetry.  ...  In 
addition  to  this  important  play,  the  volume  contains  some  new  and 
powerful  narrative  poems  of  the  sea — the  men  who  live  on  it  and  their 
ships.  There  are  also  some  shorter  lyrics  as  well  as  an  impressive 
poem  on  the  present  war  in  Europe  which  expresses,  perhaps,  better 
than  anything  yet  written,  the  true  spirit  of  England  in  the  present 
struggle." 


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Saints  and  Sinners  ................  75  net 

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Michael  and  His  Lost  Angel   .............  75  net 

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